Toyin Oladipo graduated from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1986 and proceeded to Law School in 1987, he was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar same year. After the completion of his NYSC programme in Port Harcourt, he returned to Ilorin, the Kwara State capital. He had a brief stint of less than two years with Wande Obatusi, before joining the state Ministry of Justice between 1989 and 1991. He also served with Bayo Ojo & Co for 18 years before establishing his law firm, Toyin Oladipo & Co in the 2000s. He however shares with KAYODE ADEOTI, his most dramatic experience in the profession. Excerpts:
The first day I appeared in court will never be forgotten. It was during my service year in Port-Harcourt. It all happened thus, I held a discussion with my senior in office on the matter coming up the following day in court. We both agreed to meet in office before going to court. But, when I got to the office, I found out that my colleague had suddenly became sick, he couldn’t come to work. I was however asked to represent him in court. That was my first day in the High Court Port Harcourt.
In court, the judge called an old counsel asking if his case will go on, the man said, he did not know because he hasn’t seen the opposing counsel.
Realising I was the opposing counsel, I quickly stood up to announce that the counsel they know is my senior colleague and that he couldn’t come to court because he suddenly took ill. The judge however said I should have informed the old man about the development so that we just pick another date. At this time, I have already sat down, thinking he was talking to the old man. But, all of a sudden, he shouted, ‘stand up my friend, do you think you’re in your father’s sitting room? I almost jumped out of the chair because that was my first day in court, the first case and the first time I was going to be attacked and antagonised by any judge. Then, he said, it seems I was appearing for the first time , I said yes even as I continue saying sorry sir.
