Fast-rising activist lawyer Olusegun Bamgbose dies after brief illness

Tragedy hit the Nigerian legal, political and Civil Society communities yesterday, Friday, September 17, 2021 following the sudden death of fast-rising activist lawyer and politician, Olusegun Bamgbose.

Barrister Bamgbose was National Coordinator, Concerned Advocates for Good Governance, (CAGG) and a chieftain of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP).

News Express learnt that Bamgbose died in the wee hours of Friday after a brief illness.

Reacting to his death, the Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD), of which Bamgbose was National Legal Adviser, described it as a sad development.

The rights group in a condolence message issued by its Executive Director, Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, described Bamgbose as “an icon and great iroko”, “a strong voice on matters of good governance and human rights advocacy.”

FENRAD said that Bamgbose was “richly endowed with political sagacity and was consistent in holding governments to account as he lent his voice to the most critical of national and local issues.”

According to the group, “Through his intervention and actions, government relaxed many unpopular policies. He was a fine gentleman, very hardworking, a lovely husband, father and friend to all.

“His humble mien, approach and disposition endeared him to many. Throughout his stay on earth, he was truly committed to the promotion and protection of environmental, human and democracy rights which aligned with FENRAD’s goals.

“We made many wins working together through his wise and ever-ready counsel. He led and piloted our legal department with such impeccable professionalism as a lawyer properly called.

“We are indeed pained by this loss and pray that God, in this trying time, grants his family – immediate and extended – the fortitude to bear this huge loss; same we also pray for on his friends, learned colleagues and those who by this exit are pained.

“Barr. Olusegun Bamgbose will be terribly missed.”