Emir of Ilorin, UNILORIN hail legal luminary, Ali at 70

By Stephen Oladele

The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman, Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has hailed integrity of an Ilorin based legal luminary, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu Ali SAN 

The traditional ruler while rejoicing with the lawyer who attains 70 years of age described him as a shining example of integrity, hardwork and dedication.

The monarch made the commendation just as the University of Ilorin also lauded accomplishments of the celebrant lawyer in legal profession and service to humanity.

Sulu-Gambari said that Ali who is the Kuliya of Ilorin has, over the years, distinguished himself as one of Nigeria’s foremost legal practitioners, a revered academic and mentor, and a committed community leader whose contributions have touched lives across the country.

The Emir in a statement issued on Monday by his spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, described Ali’s milestone age as a celebration of a life marked by outstanding professional excellence, scholarship, philanthropy and selfless service to humanity.

“At 70, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu Ali, SAN, stands tall as a shining example of integrity, hard work and dedication. His numerous contributions to humanity, through legal practice, education, mentorship of young lawyers, and extensive philanthropic works, have brought pride to Ilorin Emirate and to Nigeria.” The monarch stated.

The Emir while acknowledging Ali’s role in the advancement of justice, the promotion of education, and his unwavering support for the less privileged, said that such gestures reflect the true values of Ilorin Emirate.

The Emir prayed Almighty Allah to grant the lawyer more years in good health, wisdom and continued capacity to serve Allah, the Emirate, and the nation.

The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, said the university rejoiced with  Ali on his 70th birthday.

The Vice Chancellor in a congratulatory message made available to newsmen by Kunle Akogun, the university’s director of information said that Ali embodies “the very best of the legal profession”, 

He added that the birthday celebrant, as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and an international arbitrator of repute,  has raised the bar of excellence, integrity, and advocacy.

Egbewole said that beyond the courtroom, “the legendary generosity and unwavering commitment of the legal icon to the development of education have left indelible marks on our great University.”

He pointed out that “at 70,  Prof. Ali stands as a beacon of wisdom, humility, and service”, saying that he is a pride to the Bar, and to humanity.”

“We pray that Almighty Allah continues to grant you good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service to the nation and mankind.”Egbewole said.