Safiyat Titilayo Usman had a certificate in English, Physical Education at the Kwara State College of Education, Ilorin in 1978, afterwards, she proceeded to Bayero University, Kano State between 1984 and 1988 where she bagged LL.B in Islamic and Common Law. Subsequently, she went to the Nigeria law school, Lagos campus between from 1988 to 1989, and was called to Bar in 1990. Usman also had post graduate Diploma in Legislative Drafting in 1997, certificate in Mediation, Alternative Dispute Resolution in 2008 among several other qualifications before retiring from the Kwara State Civil Service in 2013 as Director Alternative Dispute Resolution centre. Usman, who was from inception of Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Kwara State chapter, vice chairperson of the association for five years, shares with our JUDICIARY CORRESPONDENT, KAYODE ADEOTI, her unforgettable experience in the legal profession. Excerpts:
I can remember sometime in 1992 when a case file was handed over to me. That matter has been ongoing with the Ministry of Justice handling it for about 7 years and there was no progress. For me then, being a new counsel, I was given the task, the judge then was justice Olagunju of blessed memory.
I was in court as early as possible the day the matter was to come up, I was seated for so long till when the cases of senior lawyers had all been called. At a time, the judge looked at me and said, ‘young lady, what are you looking for’ I replied saying it was a case I came to defend, he further asked, ‘what is the name of the matter’ I gave him immediately. The judge however asked if I was ready for the case, I responded in affirmative. He also requested if my witnesses are available. In response to this, I said I had only one witness, a reply that amazed him.
I was able to present my witness and he gave evidence. The judge, following my performance, said, so there can be someone who is ready to work like this? The judge was so impressed that he had to write the Ministry commending my efforts. I was so happy and wished to always put up my best.
