Sen. Shehu Lawan: A thunderous evening of accolades

Attaining the exalted position of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) is a rare gift of God and a result of outstanding contribution to development of administration of justice. The rank SAN is awarded by the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee (LPPC) as a mark of excellence to members of the legal profession who have distinguished themselves as advocates and academics. Members of the Inner Bar, as SANs are fondly called, enjoy some privileges, including having seats reserved for them in the front rows of all courts and with priority accorded to their cases in courts. They are also distinguishable from other lawyers by their attire called ‘silk,’ which is styled differently from the gown other lawyers wear.

Monday, September 30, 2024 would for long be a memorable day for Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan (SAN), Borno Central Senatorial District and Chairman, Senate Committee on Special Duties, his family, well-wishers, fellow parliamentarians and colleagues. It was a day when Nigeria celebrated his conferment with the prestigious SAN. The lawyer, who doubles as lawmaker, was among the 87 legal practitioners inducted into the highly-coveted rank at the Supreme Court by the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

The chief host and Borno state governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, celebrated Kaka Shehu Lawan’s elevation to SAN, praising his hard work and dedication. Zulum commended Lawal’s distinguished career and urged him to mentor legal talents from Borno state, ensuring the development of its legal community. This shows that the governor trusts the power of Lawal’s mentorship. Zulum highlighted their long-standing relationship, recalling their time as commissioners under Senator Kashim Shettima administration. He praised Lawan’s performance, calling it “second to none” and assured his administration’s support in creating an environment that fosters legal excellence.

Chairman of the occasion and Chief Judge of Borno, Justice Kashim Zannah OFR, delivered a thought-provoking speech. As he stood, the veteran jurist took his audience back to memory lane. Zannah said the conferment is not only for Lawan’s vast legal knowledge but also his great leadership at the bar. He recalled that when Lawan was attorney-general/commissioner for justice of Borno state he doubtlessly ran it excellently.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio described Lawan as “a good ambassador, a seasoned legal practitioner, a detribalised Nigerian, an advocate of the masses, and a dependable ally.” Akpabio also praised Lawan’s impressive stint in the National Assembly. He said the red chamber is really benefiting from the vast experience of the legal luminary.

Meanwhile, several good will messages were given in honour of the celebrant. Some of the messages came from Senator Tahir Mungono on behalf of the Senate, Hon Ahmad Usman Jaha on behalf of the House of Representatives, Barrister Hauwa Abubakar, attorney general and commissioner for justice Borno state, the celebrant’s course mates at University of Maiduguri, among others.

In his response, the celebrant, Shehu Lawan, thanked Almighty Allah for His abundant mercy on him. He expressed gratitude to Vice-president Kashim Shettima and Zulum who both appointed him on different occasions as attorney general and commissioner for justice, Borno state from 2014-2022. Lawal applauded Akpabio and members of the 10th Senate for a show of love and solidarity as well as members of Federal Executive Council and all other guests and well-wishers.

For the celebration of this great legal giant, crème de la crème in the Nigeria project converged on Maiduguri, Borno state capital. Dignitaries present included President Akpabio who was special guest of honour; the hardworking Governor Zulum; the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari; Minister of Transport, Senator Saidu Alkali; Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Minister of States for Mines and Steel, Uba Maigari Ahmadu; Managing Director, North East Development Commission, Dr. Mohammed Alkali as well as Deputy National Chairman North, Ali Bukar Dolori.

Others were Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin, and all other Principal Officers of the Senate, dozens of senators including Adams Oshiomhole, Aminu Iya Abbas, Babangida Hussaini, Dafinoni Ede and Abdulaziz Yar’adua, among others. Also present were: Reps Caucus from Borno state, Chief Judge of Borno state, Justice Kashim Zanna, Attorney General and Commissioner of Justice, Borno State, members of state executive council, Speaker and members of Borno State Assembly, judges, SANs of Borno origin, diplomats, traditional rulers, and local government chairmen.

Indeed, the roll call at the evening of glory for Senator Kaka Shehu Lawal is an indication that he is a highly respected learned silk, consummate intelligentsia, digital parliamentarian, advocate extraordinaire, quintessential wordsmith and seasoned orator, whose foray into legal practice has berthed a top tier law firm, K.S Lawan & Co Chambers.

Lawal is a legal luminary with a penchant for integrity and professional excellence. He is known for his legal forensic prowess and intellectual gallantry. His life and actions truly demonstrate consistency, propelled by genuine altruism. His success is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and dedication to duty. His story serves as an inspiration for those in the legal profession and in public service.

Dansardauna writes from Abuja