Bamidele Aturu (1964–2014): Tireless Advocate for Justice and Human Rights in Nigeria
Bamidele Aturu, born on 16 October 1964, and passed away on 9 July 2014, was a highly respected Nigerian lawyer, public intellectual, and human rights activist who left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s legal and civic landscape. Known for his unwavering commitment to social justice, rule of law, and the rights of the oppressed, Aturu was a courageous voice in defense of constitutionalism and public accountability.
Early Life and Education
Bamidele Aturu was born in Ogbagi-Akoko, in present-day Ondo State, Nigeria. Raised in a modest household, he grew up with a strong sense of justice and empathy, qualities that later defined his legal career and activism. He studied law at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where his political consciousness was sharpened by student activism and his exposure to the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
He was later called to the Nigerian Bar and became widely known not just as a legal practitioner, but also as a public interest lawyer unafraid to challenge the status quo.
Notable Moments and Legal Career
Aturu first gained national attention in 1988 when, as a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, he refused to shake hands with then military administrator of Niger State, Colonel Lawan Gwadabe, during his NYSC passing-out parade. His reason was a protest against military dictatorship and human rights abuses in the country. That singular act of defiance made him a symbol of principled resistance.
As a legal practitioner, he specialized in constitutional law, labour rights, and public interest litigation. He frequently represented trade unions, workers, civil rights organizations, and disadvantaged individuals who could not afford legal representation.
His legal interventions often challenged oppressive policies and illegal detentions. He was known to take on difficult cases pro bono, including representing students, journalists, and political activists who faced persecution.
Human Rights Advocacy and Civic Engagement
Aturu was one of Nigeria’s most fearless advocates for democratic values and civil liberties. He played a critical role in campaigns for:
Judicial independence
Freedom of expression
Anti-corruption
Gender equality
Labour rights
He was also actively involved in several civil society coalitions and was a key player in the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and United Action for Democracy (UAD).
Aturu often used public platforms—including lectures, writings, and television appearances—to critique bad governance and educate Nigerians on their rights under the law.
Publications and Thought Leadership
A prolific writer, Bamidele Aturu published several articles and essays on legal rights, constitutional governance, and social justice. One of his most notable contributions was a compilation of Nigerian labour laws, designed to empower workers and activists with accessible legal tools to defend their rights.
He also wrote columns for newspapers and online platforms, where he addressed topics ranging from judicial reform to constitutional amendment and electoral justice.
Political Involvement
In 2011, Aturu ran for the governorship of Lagos State under the platform of the National Conscience Party (NCP), a party founded by the late human rights lawyer Chief Gani Fawehinmi. Although he did not win, his campaign was centered on justice, equality, and transparent governance.
Death and Legacy
Bamidele Aturu died suddenly on 9 July 2014, at the age of 49. His passing was met with deep mourning across Nigeria’s legal, activist, and intellectual communities. Tributes poured in from colleagues, civil society groups, students, and the media, recognizing him as a “people’s lawyer”, a “fearless defender of the oppressed”, and a “voice of conscience in the face of power”.
Bamidele Aturu was not only a legal luminary but also a symbol of integrity, resistance, and hope in Nigeria’s long march toward justice and democracy. His life’s work remains a beacon for future generations of activists, lawyers, and citizens committed to building a just and equitable society.
His legacy lives on through the lives he touched, the battles he fought, and the principles he defended to the very end.
…Called from Historical Nigeria Yoruba
Bamidele Aturu was a committed patriot of the Left hue. He assisted during our struggle against a judge of the court of Appeal, subsequently promoted to the Supreme Court, who had perverted justice by ruling against the Unilorin 49 by using an evidence that was never pleaded in court, apparently obtained from the opposing party. The Supreme Court refused to discipline the errant judge. Aturu’s death took some sting away from our efforts.
Aturu’s memory and legacy endures.