Ondo Attorney General pays glowing tribute to late Yusuf Ustaz Usman
Dr Kayode Ajulo, the Attorney General of Ondo State, has described the late Alhaji Yunus Ustaz Usman (SAN) as having been resplendent in the legal firmament.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the legal luminary, a former National President of Muslim Lawyers Association of Nigeria (MULAN), died on Wednesday.
In a statement made available to newsmen on Thursday in Lagos, Ajulo said that the departure of Usman had left a void that could never be filled.
“With heart-wrenching sorrow, yet utter submission to the Divine will, I mourn the passing of my venerable mentor, erudite brother Silk, dearest confidant, and guiding light, Alhaji Yunus Ustaz Usman, SAN.
“Usman was a luminary of the Bar, renowned for his exceptional legal acumen, professionalism, generosity and contributions to the development of the legal profession in Nigeria.
“His achievements were numerous, including the historic feat of being the first black lawyer to address the University of Brighton in its esteemed history lecture series, delivering a keynote address in 2016.
“I vividly recall our inaugural encounter in the hallowed halls of justice, Court of Appeal, Abuja, where he approached me with words of encouragement and admiration for my nascent advocacy skills.
“This serendipitous meeting blossomed into a treasured relationship, nurtured by his genuine interest in my growth and success.”
He said that that Usman’s impact on his career had been nothing short of transformative.
“He was my ardent champion, my hype man of sorts, affectionately addressing me as `Prof’ at every opportunity.
“His enthusiasm knew no bounds when he discovered my fascination with Islamic law, despite my Christian heritage.
“We engaged in seminal discussions on various schools of thought, with my penchant for the Hanbali School eliciting his special delight.
“ Upon his appointment as a senior member and trustee of the Abuja National Mosque Management Board (ANMMB) and the Board of Trustees of the Education, Social and Health Mission (MESH), he graciously invited me to his inauguration.
“At the inauguration, he introduced me to His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar CFR mni, regaling him with tales of my uncommon interest and knowledge in Islamic law”.
Ajulo said that words would not be enough to explain the role the SAN played in his career development, including his warmth and generosity.
“His humility, wisdom, and compassion inspired me to emulate these virtues in my own life.
“As I reflect on his remarkable life, I am reminded of his numerous achievements, commitments, and contributions to the legal profession.
“His legacy serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for future generations.
“May Almighty Allah grant you al-Jannah Firdaus and comfort your loved ones during this difficult time.” Ajulo stated.
