Encomium
On Saturday, November 26, 2016, the Nigeria legal community was thrown into deep mourning as renowned human rights’ lawyer, Barrister Fred Agbaje passed away. The death of the Edo born legal icon came as a rude shock to many, especially his colleagues.
Some of his colleagues ENCOMIUM Weekly spoke to eulogized the late legal luminary who breathed his last at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi Araba, Lagos.
‘He was a determined and brilliant human right activist’ – Barr. Mohammed Fawehinmi
Barrister Fred Agbaje’s untimely death came as a shock. Mr. Agbaje was a very amiable, brilliant and determined human rights activist who was ready to work so that Nigeria succeeds. He would be greatly missed. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.
‘He was such a brilliant lawyer’ – Barr. Toyin Bamgbose-Falaiye
The news of barrister Fred Agbaje’s death was quite shocking and incredible. Although, I wasn’t close to him, I always read his contributions to human rights voices on the pages of newspapers, and magazines. He was a brilliant lawyer and a brave human rights activist.
His death has created another vacuum in the human right community. He would be missed by all.
‘His death was a rude shock’ – Barr. John Itodo
The news of Barrister Fred Agbaje came as a rude shock. Although, I didn’t know him personally, I am sure he would be missed.
May his soul rest in peace.
‘His death has cast another darkness in the legal profession’ – Barr. Malachy Ugwumadu
The passage of barrister Fred Agbaje, a renowned Nigerian constitutional lawyer is one that has cast another darkness in the legal profession, taking away from us one of the most passionate, most committed to the issues of contribution democracy.
“Agbaje’s death is sad. His constitution cannot be forgotten in the human rights community. Adieu, my friend, and I continue to respect the memories we shared together. His death has created yet another big vacuum in the voice for the defence of human rights in Nigeria. The same way I felt when we lost Bamidele Aturu. They both walked away the time they’re most needed.
Myself and the committee of human right commiserate with the family of Agbaje, a renowned constitutional lawyer. I have read Agbaje when I was a student. But the very moment we met in the struggle, there was corresponding mutual respect and we co-existed as if we have known each other for ages.
Even, despite the age difference between us, we always interrated as colleagues and friends. May his soul rest in peace.
‘He will be clearly missed’ – Barr. Clement Onwuewunor
I was really shocked by the news of Barrister Fred Agbaje’s death. He was such a notable voice in the human rights community who fought for an egalitarian society and respect for the rule of law. He will be clearly missed.
