By Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
Uzairue Kingdom in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State is celebrating a significant elevation of the one of its illustrious sons, Mustapha Ikhegbe Abubakar who was among the few legal practitioner in the country conferred with the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN).
The conferment took place on September 30, 2024, on the eve of Nigeria’s 64th Independent Day celebration.
The newly conferred SAN, Mustapha Ikhegbe Abubakar hails from Jattu , the first of such from the community and the third from uzairue clan which Jattu is part of and also the headquarters of the clan.
The others before him from uzairue clan are Barr Augustine Oyarekhua Alegeh, SAN from Ikabigbo, who was conferred in 2007 and was also the former National president of Nigeria Bar Association,NBA, and Prof. Paul Oboarenegbe Idornigie, from Ayogwiri who was conferred in 2015
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The Jattu and Uzairue Kingdom has been abuzz with excitement since news of Abubakar’s elevation broke. His conferment is seen as a testament to his hard work, dedication, and commitment to the legal profession over the past three decades.
It is also a source of pride for the Jattu Community as the first to be conferred with the prestigious title.
In a heartfelt message to his family, colleagues, and friends, Abubakar expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support and encouragement throughout his legal career. He acknowledged that this honour would not have been possible without the contributions of those who have mentored, guided and encouraged him.
Barr Abubakar is a member of the Edo State Judicial Commission, chairman Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Kaduna State between 2007 and 2009, and member of the National Executive Council of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for the past eighteen years,.
Abubakar has made significant contributions to the legal landscape in Nigeria and Edo state in particular. His elevation to the rank of SAN is expected to further enhance his ability to serve the community and advance the cause of justice in Nigeria and beyond.
Those present at the conferment ceremony include, his royal Highness, Alhaji Kadiri Imonikhe Omogbai IV, the Ogieneni of Uzairue Kingdom ably represented by over ten High Chiefs of Uzairue Kingdom which signifies the importance of the elevation to the Uzairue Kingdom.
Other dignitaries present at the occasion include his Excellency, Ibrahim Shehu Shema, former Governor of Katsina State, Hon. Justice D. I. Okungbowa, the Chief Judge of Edo State, Hon. Justice M. T. M. Aliyu, the Chief Judge of Kaduna State as well as many other Justices and Judges of the Supreme Court, Court of Appeal and High Courts.
