Aare Afe Babalola, CON, SAN, stands as a radiant beacon of the extraordinary in Nigeria, illuminating the paths of countless legal minds. His influence is profound, and as one of his beneficiaries, I often reflect on a pivotal moment during my National Youth Service in Abuja. In my earnest pursuit of a sterling legal career, I was fortunate to have Hon. Justice Olaseinde Kumuyi, the esteemed former Chief Judge of Ondo and my then Director of Civil Litigation at the Federal Ministry of Justice, advocate for my potential. With unwavering faith in my abilities, he chaperoned me to meet Aare Afe at his office in Adamasingba, Ibadan.

A gesture that exemplified his remarkable generosity, Aare Afe directed me to his Chicken House office in Abuja, where I was mentored by Olumide Ayeni, SAN, the then Head of Chambers at Afe Babalola’s Emmanuel Chambers. His kindness extended beyond guidance; he gifted me a modest yet significant sum of money, instructing me to use it to “clean my bib.” This phrase, particularly when linked to a considerable amount for caring for a newly purchased, starched bib, remains a delightful enigma, symbolizing support and encouragement.

Though my time at Aare Afe Babalola Emmanuel Chambers was brief and without formal remuneration, his visits to Abuja brought tokens of generosity that exceeded the annual earnings of many lawyers. He is a true guru and a master of the legal field; his courtroom advocacy resonates with the eloquence of a seasoned lecturer, and each of his written addresses reads like a seminal paper.

From him, I learned the virtues of confidence and the intricate nuances of legal practice, understanding that these elements are vital to success in our noble profession. He is indeed a Godsend to our jurisprudence and legal community.

It is deeply disheartening to witness unfounded accusations directed at him, disregarding our sacred Yoruba tradition of honouring our elders. To label an Ekiti man with allegations of corruption or theft without substantial evidence is a serious affront. We must cherish our community’s icons and carefully protect those we hold dear. Aare Afe Babalola is a luminary for Nigeria and the world; such baseless claims tarnish his dignity and legacy.

Legacy and reputation are the cornerstones of our personal and professional lives. They define how we are remembered and the impact we leave on others. When individuals engage in malice or grandstanding at the expense of others, they not only diminish the reputation of their targets but also tarnish their legacy. Such actions stem from insecurity and a desire for fleeting attention, ultimately leading to a cycle of negativity that harms everyone involved.

Both civil and criminal laws exist to protect reputation, safeguarding individuals from defamation and unjust harm. These laws remind us that our words and actions carry profound weight, influencing lives long after spoken.

As we navigate this complex terrain, we must also remember that to err is human. Mistakes are inherent in our existence, and acknowledging this truth is crucial in our pursuit of justice. While accountability is essential, justice should mirror Aare Afe’s generous spirit and be tempered with mercy.

When we make errors—whether in judgment, action, or decision—it’s vital to approach these situations with compassion, recognizing the potential for growth and rehabilitation. As the Quran beautifully states, “And do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness” (Quran 5:8). Similarly, the Bible teaches us to “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” (Luke 6:31).

In the spirit of our rich traditions, let us honour our elders and protect the integrity of our community, nurturing a legacy of respect, compassion, healing and understanding that will inspire generations to come.

Kayode Ajulo is the attorney-general of Ondo State.