Prominent Nigerians, including Uba Sani, gathered in Lagos to honour the late human rights icon Gani Fawehinmi during events marking his 88th posthumous birthday.
The commemoration, organised by his daughter, Basirat Fawehinmi-Biobaku, brought together activists from civil society, the media, and the legal profession at the Gani Fawehinmi Gallery and Library.
The event also featured the presentation and launch of a book titled “Gani Fawehinmi and the Nigerian Press.”
In his tribute, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State praised Fawehinmi’s lifelong commitment to education and social justice. He highlighted the late activist’s efforts to promote inclusive learning through initiatives such as the Gani Fawehinmi Northern Students Scholarship, aimed at expanding access to education for underserved communities.
Former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko reflected on Fawehinmi’s enduring relevance, noting that his presence would have strengthened ongoing struggles for good governance in Nigeria.
Mimiko emphasized that beyond policy decisions such as fuel subsidy removal, transparency and accountability remain critical to ensuring public benefit.
Other notable figures who paid tribute included Femi Falana (SAN), Shehu Sani, Pat Utomi, Joe Odumakin, and several leaders across the legal and media sectors.
Gani Fawehinmi, born in 1938 and passed in 2009, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential human rights lawyers.
He was known for his unwavering advocacy for the poor and marginalized, as well as his role in the struggle against military rule and corruption.
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