Ayokunle Odekunle, a Nigerian legal practitioner based in Alberta, Canada, passed away on Friday after a prolonged battle with gastric cancer.
Popularly known as Oddy, Odekunle’s fight against stage 4 cancer, diagnosed in 2020, came to an end, leaving behind a legacy of legal brilliance and a commitment to justice.
The news of Odekunle’s passing was announced by Kaycee Madu, a Nigerian-born former Minister of Justice and Solicitor-General of Alberta, on Saturday. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Madu expressed profound sadness over the loss of a dear brother, friend, and colleague.
“Ayo was a brilliant young lawyer who sacrificed so much to be called to the Alberta Bar this past June whilst terminally ill. We had hoped for a miracle,” Madu wrote.
Odekunle’s determination and dedication to the legal profession were evident as he pursued his career actively despite facing a terminal illness. He was recently called to the Alberta Bar in June 2023, showcasing his commitment to the practice of law.
“In his lifetime, he stood for justice, merit, and good governance. Ayo didn’t care where you come from, religion or ethnicity, and so long as you are a good person who stood for good, he will support you. He wanted the best for his fellow human beings,” Madu added.
Odekunle, an alumnus of the University of Ibadan where he graduated in 2011 and was called to the Nigerian Bar, made significant contributions not only in litigation but also through his passion for writing. He published op-eds and commentaries on various media platforms, including YNaija, and appeared on several television programs.
He leaves behind his wife, Halima, and two beautiful young children.
