Mary Akanbi
22nd December, 2024
It is with profound shock and a heart heavy with grief that I pen this tribute to my dear friend, call mate, and brother, Mufutau Mabokunrinje Adewale Sanni—the Pioneer Chairman and the unwavering Pillar of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Eti Osa Branch. The devastating news of his passing in a ghastly motor accident on the 13th of December, 2024, exactly one year after the demise of his close ally and partner in progress, Abdullateef Abioye Akerele, is a blow too cruel to comprehend.
MMA’s journey as a trailblazer for the Eti Osa Branch is incomplete without acknowledging the tireless efforts he made alongside the late Abioye Akerele, who served as the Secretary of the Eti Osa Forum before its elevation to a full-fledged branch. Together, they worked with a shared vision and unmatched zeal, laying the groundwork for what we now celebrate as the Eti Osa Branch. While fate robbed Abioye Akerele of the chance to witness the Forum’s transformation into a branch, Mufutau carried the torch forward with resilience and a deep sense of duty.
I still remember vividly the day of his inauguration as the Pioneer Chairman of the Eti Osa Branch—a historic moment I had the distinct honor of witnessing. On that day, the air was filled with hope and promise, as Mufutau stood tall and proud, prepared to lead a nascent branch into greatness. With his trademark calm demeanor, sharp intellect, and unwavering commitment to the Bar, he accepted the responsibility with grace and a sense of purpose that inspired everyone in attendance. Little did we know that this pioneer, this pillar of the Eti Osa Branch, would leave us so soon.
Mufutau was more than just a colleague or a leader; he was a true brother and friend. His kindness, warmth, and humility left an impression on all who encountered him. A man of deep integrity and focus, he worked tirelessly to establish and nurture the Eti Osa Branch into the formidable institution it is today. He built bridges where there were none, and his vision for the Bar was one of unity, growth, and unwavering service to the profession.
To call Mufutau a pillar is not a mere metaphor—it is the truth in every sense of the word. He carried the branch on his shoulders, dedicating his time, resources, and passion to ensure that the Eti Osa Bar thrived. His leadership was not borne out of a desire for accolades but out of a genuine love for the Bar and its members. He believed in collaboration, mentorship, and the power of the collective, always encouraging those around him to strive for excellence.
The loss of Mufutau Mabokunrinje Adewale Sanni, so soon after the passing of Abioye Akerele, is a cruel twist of fate that has left an irreplaceable void. The pain of losing two remarkable men who embodied the ideals of leadership, friendship, and selflessness is immeasurable. Yet, their legacies remind us that even in grief, we must continue the work they began with the same passion and dedication.
As we mourn this untimely departure, let us also celebrate the life Mufutau lived—a life defined by service, friendship, and an unyielding commitment to justice. His legacy will endure in the Eti Osa Branch he so proudly pioneered, in the hearts of those he mentored, and in the memories of all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Rest in peace, my dear brother. Your light may have dimmed, but its glow will remain forever in our hearts. The NBA Eti Osa Branch will stand tall because of the foundation you laid, and your memory, alongside that of Abioye Akerele, will continue to inspire all of us to live lives of purpose, service, and dedication.
Goodnight, MMA. You will never be forgotten.
Dr Mobolaji Ojibara
General Secretary
Nigerian Bar Association
