‘Young Lawyers shouldn’t be in a hurry to make Money’
My name is Ogedi Ogu. I am the 5th son of Mr. & Mrs. Augustine Ogu of Ogbe- Ahiara, Imo State of Nigeria. I had my Secondary School education at High School, Emekuku, Owerri and University education at Enugu State University of Science & Technology (Esut), wherein I obtained an LL.B Degree in 2004, and thereafter, a BL from the Nigerian Law School, Abuja. Immediately after my call to Bar, I commenced my pupilage under the erudite tutelage of Chief Nich
Onwuama of Nich Onwuama & Co (Oke-uvru Chambers) Owerri. I consider Chief Onwuama to be my benefactor, in that I can make bold to say that, I cut my legal teeth under his legal touch. Thereafter, and by way of legal adventure, I moved down to Lagos State, and worked briefly with The Carrington Law Firm, as well as Aghuonaruogho & Aghuonaruogho. I was subsequently invited to join in the setting up of Frank Ugboma Chambers, where I was a partner until 2011 when I left and founded The Source Chambers, and to the glory of Master Jesus, I remain the Managing Partner of the firm to date.
Have you had any challenges in your career as a Lawyer, and if so, what were the main challenges?
In law, just like in every other life endeavour, challenges abound. Most often, as a young Lawyer, one is bound to contend with challenges, which in most cases, are beyond one’s immediate ability, given the little-or-no-earnings one is confronted with, at the material time. Of course, I suffered just like every other young Lawyer, at the time. Particularly having to contend with the near slavery one is subjected to, as a new wig. Regrettably, new wigs are often seen by principals, as brining little or no value to the firm, hence, they even consider the peanuts paid to new wigs as a waste of their resources. I have had an experience were a senior summoned us (new wigs), and said we only come to the firm to earn meal tickets. It was that bad.
What was your worst day as a Lawyer? It is difficult to forget the day. While I was fresh in Lagos, I was sent to attend court for a matter. On getting to Ikeja High Court, I was informed that Judges had been transferred, and that those in Ikeja were moved to Igbosere. On hearing this, I quickly rushed to Igbosere from Ikeja, but when I got to Igbosere, I was told that the particular Judge was not moved. In that tension, I rushed back to Ikeja High Court, only to discover that the Judge only changed courtroom within the Ikeja Division. So, when I got inside the court, the court was still seating, I took leave and informed the court of my predicament, the Judge sympathised with my situation, but informed me that the matter had been struck out for want of diligent prosecution, and that his hands were tied. When I got back to the office, my principal insisted that, I must bear the cost of getting the case back on the cause list.
What was your most memorable experience as a Lawyer?
My most cherished experience in practice, is the case of Emma Ofoegbu v FRCN (otherwise known as new plate number). As the counsel in that widely
celebrated case, I was happy that I fought and saved the masses from the harassment and intimidation that ensued, with the introduction of the new plate numbers by the Federal Road Safety Corps. And the gratitude of the masses that keeps pouring in as a result of that struggle, keeps my soul warm.
Who has been most influential in your life?
Oh, my Father, the gentleman that coursed his bread, that I and my siblings may live a better life. He was humility on two legs.
Why did you become a Lawyer? During my formative years in the Secondary School, I lived in the government quarters with my father. There, we had Judges and Magistrates in the neighbourhood. I was often moved by their candour and mannerisms, and each time my father went to work, I practically relocated to courtrooms, just to watch my idols. The respect and serenity, enslaved my mind and formed my today.
What would be your advice to anyone wanting a career in law?
It is a profession, worth waiting for. So, cherish, love and enjoy it. But above all, you must be ready to persevere. Young Lawyers, should not be in a hurry to make money. Money will come, provided you get to know the rudiments.
If you had not become a Lawyer, what career would you have chosen?
It is certainly difficult to imagine. I mea, I have never pondered on or contemplated this. You must forgive me, for knowing no other profession.
Where do you see yourself in ten years? I solemnly will love to be perfect in the art of law, particularly in the art of grooming young ones. I want it to be said that, this Lawyer, was part of my formative years at the Bar.