The former chairperson of the Nigerian Bar Association, Ikere branch, Oludayo Olorunfemi has once again expressed sadness over the unfortunate demise of Hon. High Chief Paul Olubunmi Olugbade, the Apeluwa of Ilawe Kingdom.
![](https://thenigerialawyer.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/2026-IDRI-Masterclass.png")
In a statement dated the 18th of February, 2021, the former Ikere Bar leader and member of the Body of benchers noted the difficulty that exists in coming to the reality of the demise of the deceased, trusting that his [the deceased] legacy will certainly live on.
Oludayo Olorunfemi also uses the opportunity to appreciate the Kikelomo Owolabi-led Exco and all the members of NBA Ikere Ekiti, who rose to the occasion by supporting the family when it was very critical. In addition, she described the efforts of Ezekiel Agunbiade of Obafemi Adewale & Co as being very instructive and essential during the trying period.
See full tribute below;
My Dear Effizy aka Bros Pauloooo,
Tribute to Hon. High Chief Paul Olubunmi Olugbade, Apeluwa of Ilawe Kingdom
How do I begin to write a tribute to a man who wore so many caps and meant so much to many people across all sectors, regardless of age or class. Chief Olugbade, Àjànàkú sùn bí òkè!
I recall our first meeting at Ikere Bar shortly after our father and benefactor, Asiwaju Wole Olanipekun SAN, OFR, LL.D, FCIArb, FINALS handed over the keys of the magnificent bar center building to the Ikere Bar. We stood talking, with my sister and friend Oluwaseyi Ojo (now also late) and you encouraged me to become an active member of the Bar.
Ahead of my first elective position, you called me and said ‘Day , mo ti gba f mù fún ẹ. You are contesting as Vice Chairman’. No questions asked. I replied “Yes Sir, Ṣé ẹ ẹ kúkú campaign fún mi”. The rest they say is history. Your support and counsel throughout my tenure as Chairperson NBA Ikere Branch (2018-2020) and particularly during the transition period make me forever in your debt.
You taught me so many things, one of which is selfless service. Through your actions and relationship with friends, colleagues and political associates you exemplified the Omoluabi ethos of patience and unalloyed commitment. Even when it was not convenient and the parties appeared undeserving of your sacrifice you went the extra mile. You often said, “Day , kò gb d bàjẹ . Àgbà máa ń gbà ni”. When the news of your illness got to me, I remembered your near death experiences over the years. I hoped that like those experiences, you’d also overcome this with your undefeatable spirit. Alas! It was not to be.
I must at this time thank the Kikelomo Owolabi led Exco and all the members of NBA Ikere
Ekiti, who rose to the occasion by supporting the family when it was very critical. Ezekiel Agunbiade of Obafemi Adewale & Co, you are the true definition of a brother indeed and in need. You stood by Chief Olugbade, day and night, rallying the children, keeping vigil at his bedside, managing the situation, giving information, ensuring that our Egbon was comfortable even till the very end. May God Almighty remember your sacrifice and find you worthy. One day, not today, we will write about the irony of mourning and loss.
Anyone who met Chief Bunmi Olugbade will know he held his daughters very dear. These young ladies, Banke, Opeoluwa, Tolulope, Tomisin, Temiloluwa and Teniola are the ‘sheros’ of this story. They stood and took charge of the care of their ailing father. They became his personal nurse, physiotherapist, dietician, assistant, legal secretary, interpreter and pillar of support. My prayer for you all is that the Almighty will uphold you all now and beyond. Please be assured of my support always.
How do you say good bye to an engima? You simply don’t say goodbye. His good name, legacy as a progressive political gladiator, father of the boys and girls, bridge builder, family man, a man after God’s heart and a jolly good fellow will continue to live after him.
Sùn-un’re ooo! Baba omo.
[A MUST HAVE] Evidence Act Demystified With Recent And Contemporary Cases And Materials
Available now for NGN 40,000 at ASC Publications, 10, Boyle Street, Onikan, Lagos. Beside High Court, TBS. Email publications@ayindesanni.com or WhatsApp +2347056667384. Purchase Link: https://paystack.com/buy/evidence-act-complete-annotation
______________________________________________________________________ “Enhance Legal Practice With Authoritative Reports” — Alexander Payne Offers Comprehensive Law Reports, Spanning Over A Century Of Nigerian Jurisprudence
Interested buyers are encouraged to place their orders and enquiries via:
0704 444 4777, 0704 444 4999, 0818 199 9888
Website: www.alexandernigeria.com
