‘Every Lawyer Should Know the Value of Time’
My name is Adebola Sobowale, I attended the Nigerian Navy Secondary School Abeokuta, Olabisi Onabanjo University and the Nigerian Law School, Abuja. I was called to the Nigerian Bar in 2005. I started my legal career with the firm of Agabi Shinaba Ogon and Co, in 2005. I joined the Dispute Resolution Team at Olisa Agbakoba Legal (OAL) in 2008, and was admitted as a Partner in the firm in April 2017. I am a member of the NBA Section on Business Law, Negotiation and Conflict Management Group, Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria, and the Insolvency International. I am married with two lovely children.
Have you had any challenges in your career as a Lawyer, and if so, what were the main challenges?
I would say, yes. The seemingly slow pace of the administration of justice, is a challenge for Lawyers in litigation. Whilst I will admit that there have been tremendous improvements lately, a lot can still be done to create an enabling environment for Lawyers in litigation, to practice law.
What was your worst day as a Lawyer?
I would say, the day I got caught up in horrendous traffic, and got to court just as my matter was struck out. I pleaded with the court to no avail, and it was quite a serious case. Although, we later got the matter relisted, it was a terrible experience, particularly managing the Client.
What was your most memorable experience as a Lawyer?
I have had quite a number of memorable experiences, but I would always remember the day I got a man accused of an offence discharged, after several years in jail without a trial. He fell at my feet, and cried profusely. I was a youth corps member at the time, and that experience made me realise the importance of the profession I had chosen.
Who has been most influential in your life?
First, my parents, Commander and Mrs. Sobowale (Rtd) who taught me discipline, love and responsibility early in life. My wife, Biola, who is a constant source of inspiration and motivation. The Late Mrs. Sylvia Shinaba, SAN, my first boss and mentor. The great team at OAL, led by Dr. Olisa Agbakoba, SAN and Mrs. Priscilla Ogwemoh, who have given me a platform to develop my career, and contribute my bit to the development of law in Nigeria.
Why did you become a Lawyer?
Initially, it was because I thoroughly enjoyed literature, whereas I hated mathematics. I later chose to develop a career in law, because I got to understand the importance of law. I realised that my skills and qualification, would enable me help mankind and contribute to the economic and social development of the society.
What would be your advice to anyone wanting a career in law?
My advice would be, to take the profession seriously, undergo good pupilage, understand that law practice is a business, as a well as a means to develop the society and help mankind, and lastly to value time. Our time is what we sell, as Lawyers.
If you had not become a Lawyer, what career would you have chosen?
Given my background, I would probably have joined the Navy.
Where do you see yourself in ten years?
The peak of the profession! I hope to become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, and more importantly, in a position where I can contribute significantly to the development of the society