Bola Ajibola was a Nigerian jurist and diplomat who made significant contributions to the development of international law and human rights. This article delves into his life, career, and contributions to society.
Early Life and Education
Bola Ajibola was born on March 22, 1934, in Abeokuta, Nigeria. He attended Baptist Boys’ High School and the University of London, where he studied law. He was called to the bar in England in 1961 and in Nigeria in 1962.
Legal Career
After completing his studies, Bola Ajibola worked as a lawyer in Nigeria, eventually becoming a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 1978. He served as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ogun State from 1979 to 1983. In 1984, he was appointed a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and served on the court until 1991. During his tenure on the ICJ, he was involved in several high-profile cases, including the Nicaragua v. United States case.
Diplomatic Career
After leaving the ICJ, Bola Ajibola served as Nigeria’s Minister of Justice and Attorney General from 1991 to 1993. In 1994, he was appointed the President of the ICJ and served in that capacity until 1997. He was the first African to hold the position.
Human Rights Activism
Bola Ajibola was a strong advocate for human rights and was actively involved in the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. He was a member of the United Nations Human Rights Committee from 1985 to 1991 and served as its chairman from 1987 to 1990. He also served as the chairman of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights from 1994 to 1995.
Legacy
Bola Ajibola made significant contributions to the development of international law and human rights during his lifetime. He was a prominent jurist and diplomat who served in various capacities at the national and international levels. He was awarded several honors, including the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) and the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR). He died on September 17, 2021, at the age of 87.
Conclusion
Bola Ajibola was a remarkable figure whose contributions to the development of international law and human rights will continue to be felt for generations to come. He was a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work, dedication, and a commitment to justice and equality.
FAQs
- What is Bola Ajibola known for? Bola Ajibola was a Nigerian jurist and diplomat who made significant contributions to the development of international law and human rights.
- Where was Bola Ajibola born? Bola Ajibola was born in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
- What was Bola Ajibola’s educational background? Bola Ajibola attended Baptist Boys’ High School and the University of London, where he studied law.
- What positions did Bola Ajibola hold at the international level? Bola Ajibola served as a judge of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) from 1984 to 1991 and as the President of the ICJ from 1994 to 1997.
- When did Bola Ajibola pass away? Bola Ajibola passed away on September 17, 2021, at the age of 87.
