Sixteen years after the death of Chief Gani Fawehinmi, a man widely known as the “Senior Advocate of the Masses,” Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has paid an emotional tribute to the late legal icon and pro-democracy fighter, describing him as a father, mentor, and national hero whose influence still guides his path today.
In a heartfelt message titled “Remembering Gani Fawehinmi: My Mentor, My Hero”, Governor Sani shared personal memories and reflections on how the late Chief Fawehinmi shaped his life and inspired his dedication to justice, democracy, and good governance.
Chief Gani Fawehinmi, SAN, GCON, passed away on September 5, 2009, leaving behind a legacy of fearless activism, legal brilliance, and a deep commitment to the downtrodden. He was a constant thorn in the side of military dictators, a loud voice for the oppressed, and a legal mind that redefined the role of law in the fight for social justice.
According to Governor Sani, Fawehinmi’s death was not only a personal loss but a national tragedy.
“Nigeria and Africa lost a titan. His life was a testament to courage, unwavering principle, and indefatigable commitment to justice and democracy,” Sani said.
The Governor recalled meeting Chief Fawehinmi during the dark days following the June 12, 1993 presidential election — an election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history, but which was shamefully annulled by the military. At that critical time, Fawehinmi stood out as a powerful voice for democracy, while many others were either silent or afraid.
“At a time when fear sought to suffocate hope, Chief Fawehinmi emerged as a beacon of fearless resistance. His commitment to justice cut across tribal and regional boundaries,” he added.
As a young Northerner opposing the annulment of the June 12 election, Uba Sani found in Fawehinmi not just a leader, but a mentor and father figure. He stayed in Fawehinmi’s home in Lagos, sharing a room with Comrade Femi Aborisade, one of the chief’s closest allies.
It was there that his journey into full-blown civil rights activism truly began.
“His home in Lagos became my second sanctuary. It was in those hallowed chambers that I drank deeply from his well of knowledge, courage, and unyielding faith in justice,” Sani revealed.
Fawehinmi was not just a brilliant lawyer, but one who used his skills to defend ordinary Nigerians. He challenged unlawful arrests, stood up to dictators, and used the courts to push for justice.
Even when he was arrested, detained, or imprisoned — which happened many times — he never gave up. His courage inspired millions across the country.
“He believed the law could be used as a powerful tool for change,” Sani noted. “When others stayed silent, Chief Fawehinmi stood firm. He never wavered.”
He led several pro-democracy coalitions, including the Joint Action Committee of Nigeria (JACON), where Uba Sani served as National Vice Chairman. Together, they took the struggle to the North and united Nigerians against dictatorship.
Chief Gani Fawehinmi also believed strongly in education. In 2000, he launched a national scholarship scheme to support brilliant but financially disadvantaged students. Governor Sani helped to extend this initiative to Northern Nigeria, where education was most needed.
“Over a thousand Nigerians have benefited. Many are now doctors, lawyers, and leaders,” Sani said. “This was one of the chief’s most enduring contributions to national development.”
After democracy was restored in 1999, Fawehinmi continued to fight — this time in the courts. Alongside allies like Uba Sani, Femi Aborisade, and others, he challenged efforts by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to limit political participation by deregistering parties.
This led to a landmark Supreme Court ruling that protected the right of political parties to exist — a decision that still shapes Nigeria’s political landscape today.
“That victory was a clear example of how Chief Fawehinmi used the law to expand democratic space and protect the constitution,” Sani explained.
The legal challenge was supported by respected political figures like Mallam Balarabe Musa and M.D. Yusuf, and it paved the way for the recognition of many of the new political parties we see today.
Governor Sani said that Fawehinmi’s life and message are more relevant today than ever, especially as Nigeria continues to face challenges in governance, security, and human rights.
“Even now, years after his passing, Chief Fawehinmi lives vibrantly in the hearts and minds of Nigerians. He remains an icon of resilience and a paragon of selflessness,” he said.
According to him, Gani Fawehinmi taught that democracy is not just about elections, but about justice, accountability, and inclusive governance. These are the ideals that continue to guide Sani as governor of Kaduna State.
“From him, I learnt that the fight for justice demands courage, patience, and strategic engagement,” he said.
Sani called on Nigerians, especially the youth, to continue the fight for justice and democracy. He urged them to remember that the freedom they enjoy today was bought with great sacrifice, especially by heroes like Fawehinmi.
“The challenge before us is to build on his legacy. We must continue to fight for fairness, equity, and constitutional rule,” he said.
He also reminded the public that democracy is fragile and must be protected at all times.
“His vision was not for just one moment in time, but for a Nigeria where liberty and justice are the birthright of every citizen.”
As the country marks 16 years since the passing of Gani Fawehinmi, Uba Sani’s tribute serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one life can have on an entire nation. Fawehinmi may be gone, but his spirit of resistance, compassion, and justice lives on.
“May the soul of our departed mentor rest in eternal peace, and may Almighty Allah grant him the rest befitting a man whose life was a sacrifice for justice and democracy,” Sani concluded.
