The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and the founder of First Bethel Solicitors, Ashiwaju Omoniyi Odeyemi, have charged legal practitioners to uphold integrity, diligence and professional ethics as the bedrock of a successful legal career.

Fagbemi and Odeyemi spoke  at the grand opening of First Bethel Solicitors, Olabimpe House, Mokola, Ibadan, an event attended by senior lawyers, judges, clerics, business leaders and other dignitaries.

Among those present were Adebayo Adenipekun (SAN), Mutalubi Ojo Adebayo (SAN), Justice S.A. Oyediran, Alhaji Kazeem Gbadamosi, veteran broadcaster and gospel musician, Yinka Ayefele, Thomas Olaotan and several members of the legal profession.

Speaking at the event, Fagbemi described the unveiling of the new law office as more than the opening of a physical structure, saying it represented vision, resilience and commitment to the ideals of the legal profession.

According to him, the establishment of a law firm marks a significant milestone in the career of every legal practitioner because it comes with greater responsibility to society, justice and the rule of law.

“The legal profession remains one of the most vital pillars of democracy and good governance. As custodians of justice and defenders of the constitutional order, legal practitioners occupy a sacred position in nation-building,” he said.

Fagbemi lauded Odeyemi for his perseverance, courage and commitment to excellence, expressing confidence that the new office would serve as a centre for professional distinction, integrity, advocacy and quality legal service delivery.

He urged lawyers to remain steadfast in promoting justice, fairness, accountability and the protection of citizens’ rights.

“The future of our legal system depends largely on practitioners who are committed not only to personal success but also to service and societal impact,” he added.

In his remarks, Odeyemi, a legal practitioner, Notary Public, Justice of the Peace, arbitrator and mediator, said the new office was established to expand the firm’s operations and provide a conducive environment for lawyers, interns and law students.

He stressed that integrity and trust remain the foundation of legal practice, noting that lawyers who uphold those values earn public confidence and professional referrals.

“You cannot go far in this profession if you lack integrity and trust because the foundation of this profession is integrity and trust. A lawyer must be diligent in his work, and that is the only way to succeed,” he said.

Earlier, in her welcome address, Mrs. ‘Delayo Adetunji-Oriekun (FCIArb) described Odeyemi as a trusted confidant and lauded his contributions to the profession, noting that a strong and independent Bar remains crucial to the administration of justice in Nigeria.

Delivering goodwill messages, Mutalubi Adebayo (SAN) lauded Odeyemi’s determination and hard work, describing the new chamber as the beginning of greater accomplishments.

Justice Oyediran commended his creativity and productivity, while Adenipekun (SAN) expressed confidence that he would continue to excel in the profession.

Ayefele, who described Odeyemi as his longtime lawyer, said the legal practitioner had handled several of his corporate matters over the years.

“He is brilliant, articulate and well versed in law,” Ayefele said.

Other speakers, including Pastor L.A. Oluwasanmi, Barrister Femi Kasunmu, Mary Odeyemi, Alhaji Kazeem Gbadamosi, Justice Adeeyo, Mr. Sola Omole, Prince Adewuyi Aderibigbe and Pastor Yemi Bello (JP), lauded Odeyemi’s integrity, humility, diligence and commitment to excellence.

They described the new edifice as a product of years of hard work and dedication to justice, while expressing optimism that First Bethel Solicitors would make significant contributions to legal practice and access to justice in the country.