In a powerful address marking his 36th anniversary at the Nigerian Bar, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Dr. Reuben Atabo, has issued a clarion call for systemic legal and political reform. He urged the Federal Government to move beyond rhetoric and ensure the prosecution of all sponsors of killings in the country, irrespective of their political, economic, or social status.
Atabo’s call strikes at the heart of Nigeria’s enduring security challenges, where violence by non-state actors often has suspected financial and political backers who remain untouched. “It is high time political office holders are held accountable and transparency upheld while in office,” he declared. This demand for accountability extends beyond immediate violence to the roots of governance failure.
Expanding his critique, Atabo advocated for a crucial legal innovation: strengthening the law to prosecute former political office holders for abuse of power and wrongful decisions made while in office. This proposal addresses a critical gap in Nigeria’s governance—the near-total impunity for official misconduct once a term ends. Such a law, he argued, would serve as a permanent checkmate against the abuse of power, forcing officials to consider the long-term consequences of their actions. This could apply to scenarios like the reckless approval of flawed contracts, the negligent disbursement of public funds, or orders leading to security failures.
In his address, “Reflections of Legal Practice,” Atabo attributed his longevity and success to divine grace. “I give God the glory for His grace, wisdom, and strength in these last 36 years… Indeed, I can classify this period as a period of amazing grace of God upon my life,” he stated.
He illustrated the trials of principled legal practice by recounting his firm’s direct challenges to power, including taking on the Kaduna State Government over the acquisition of 814 hectares of farmland without compensating landowners. He also highlighted landmark cases his firm handled, such as Sulgrave Holdings Inc. & 19 Ors vs. Federal Government of Nigeria & 3 Ors (2012), which underscore a practice willing to confront formidable opponents.
Colleagues and family amplified this portrait of a steadfast advocate. Mrs. Abaro-Gloria Haruna, Deputy Head of his Chamber, highlighted his “humility, industriousness and principled advocacy.” Keynote speaker Dr. Joseph Akubo, SAN, described Atabo as “a man with a golden heart… always willing to help anyone in need.”
His wife, Mrs. Martha Atabo, provided a personal testament, expressing pride in seeing “the young barrister mature into a Senior Advocate of Nigeria” and celebrating his character as “a champion for the defenceless.”
The event also served to recognize the dedication of long-serving staff members of his law firm, with Josephine Umana, John Edwin, and Danjuma Yakubu receiving cash awards, reflecting the value Atabo places on loyalty and collective effort.
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
