The Nigerian Bar Association has held a programme of tributes for its member, the late Omobolanle Raheem.
She was shot by a police officer, identified as ASP Drambi Vandi, on December 25, 2022 at Ajah under bridge, on her way back from church after a Christmas service.
Mrs Raheem who was pregnant, was in her vehicle in the company of her husband, sister and child, at the time of the incident.
The police officer is being prosecuted by the Lagos state government for the murder. Trial opened on Monday after the defendant pleaded not guilty to the offence.
Many of the 41-year old’s professional colleagues poured tributes on her, describing her as very resourceful, loving and hardworking.
She was also a popular, award-winning realtor and real estate developer.
The president of the Nigerian Bar programme, Yakubu Maikyau, who attended the event described her death as one of the many Nigerians who have lost their lives at the hands of those who swore to protect them.
“She was one of us. But that is not the sole reason we have chosen to hold this event in her memory and in her honour. This ceremony is being held today because, Omobolanle, in her death, has become the enduring symbol of all innocent Nigerians who lost their lives at the hands of the police and other security agencies. Our tribute today is therefore not only to mourn our departed colleague and other citizens, but also to re- affirm our commitment to ensure that justice is done in their cases.”
Other dignitaries at the event include former NBA President, Olumide Akpata; Attorney-General of Lagos State, Moyosore Onigbanjo, who was represented by the Solicitor-General of the Ministry of Justice, Titi Shitta-Bey; and Titilola Akinlawon, who is heading the ad-hoc committee tasked with interfacing with the deceased’s family, Lagos state government and the Nigerian Police Force, Lagos command on behalf of the NBA.
All the Chairpersons of the NBA branches in the state – Lagos, Ikeja, Epe, Badagry and Ikorodu, were also in attendance.
A Service of Songs is slated for Monday, 16th January and Her Burial Service will hold on Tuesday, 17th January, 2023.
Both events are to hold at Olive Tree Parish, the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Banana Island Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.
