EYITAYO JEGEDE SAN: A DISTINGUISHED LEGAL ICON AND POLITICAL STATESMAN FROM ONDO STATE
Eyitayo Olayinka Jegede (SAN) was born on 26 April 1961 to the family of late Chief Johnson Bosede Jegede (Odopetu of Isinkan, Akure) and Mrs. Caroline Olutola Jegede (née Asokeji) from Ipele town near Owo in Ondo State. He is the fifth of seven children in the family.
Early Life & Background
His educational journey began at St. Stephen’s “SA” Primary School, Modakeke, after which he proceeded to Aquinas College, Akure (January 1973 – July 1978) for his secondary education. He later attended Christ’s School, Ado Ekiti, where he obtained his Higher School Certificate.
While at Aquinas College, he served as the Senior Prefect and participated actively in sports, particularly volleyball, where he was the team captain both at Aquinas College and Christ’s School — a leadership and team spirit he carried into his university days.
Education & Legal Training
Jegede studied Law at the University of Lagos from 1980 to 1983 and attended the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos, where he was called to the Bar in 1984. His professional distinction was recognized early, and in 1992, he was appointed a Notary Public by the Chief Justice of Nigeria.
His legal excellence culminated in his elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) on 16 December 2008 — a recognition reserved for the most accomplished lawyers in the country.
Legal Career
Upon completing his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), he began his legal career in Yola (then Gongola State, now Adamawa State) with the firm Murtala Aminu & Co., where he worked for 12 years — six of which he served as Head of Chambers.
In 1996, he founded his own law firm, Tayo Jegede & Co., with offices in Abuja and Yola, focusing on litigation, commercial, and corporate law. His practice became known for excellence, integrity, and dedication to clients’ interests.
Public Service & Political Career
In 2009, Jegede was appointed Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State under Governor Olusegun Mimiko, serving meritoriously until July 2016. During his tenure, he implemented far-reaching reforms, including the comprehensive review of Ondo State’s laws the first since the state’s creation and the improvement of criminal justice administration.
A passionate public servant and reform-minded leader, he ventured into politics, contesting as the PDP Governorship Candidate for Ondo State in both 2016 and 2020. After a legal tussle, the Court of Appeal on 23 November 2016 confirmed him as the authentic candidate of the PDP.
Ahead of the 2024 election, he gracefully withdrew from the race, emphasizing the need for reforms and inclusivity within the party — a testament to his selflessness and deep sense of statesmanship.
Personal Life
Eyitayo Jegede is married to Mrs. Eno Jegede, and their union is blessed with four children. He is a devout member of the Anglican Communion, where he has served as Chancellor in several dioceses, demonstrating his commitment to faith and service to God.
Notable Achievements & Character
Over 35 years of outstanding legal practice.
Instrumental in reforming Ondo State’s justice system.
A reputable advocate of fairness, justice, and good governance.
Known for humility, professionalism, and integrity.
Conclusion
Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, stands tall as one of Nigeria’s most respected legal minds and political figures. From the courtroom to the public space, his life reflects excellence, leadership, and service to humanity. A loyal PDP stalwart and committed reformer, Jegede continues to inspire a generation of young Nigerians with his discipline, intellect, and patriotic zeal.
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