Femi Falana

Femi Falana, SAN (born May 20, 1958, in Ilawe Ekiti, now in Ekiti State, Nigeria) is a highly prominent Nigerian lawyer, human rights activist, and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). He is widely recognized for his decades-long commitment to public interest litigation, the defense of civil and human rights, and the campaign for democratic governance in Nigeria and across Africa. He is also the father of Nigerian rapper, Folarin Falana, popularly known as Falz. Early Life and Education Falana began his education at St. Michael's School and later attended Sacred Heart Catholic Seminary from 1971 to 1975. He obtained his Bachelor of Laws (LL. B.) degree from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1981 and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar in 1982 after completing his legal education at the Nigerian Law School. Legal and Activist Career Progression Falana established himself as a fervent advocate for justice, initially through rigorous opposition to military dictatorships in Nigeria. His outspoken human rights activism often led to his arrest and detention between 1984 and 1998, though he was never convicted of any offense. His legal practice, Falana & Falana's Chambers, covers a diverse range of legal matters, including civil and criminal cases, with a specialization in public interest litigation. His dedication to the legal profession culminated in his elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2012. Major Achievements and Contributions Falana is a leading advocate for human rights and international humanitarian law, having represented victims of human rights abuses before various international tribunals, including the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights and the Community Court of Justice. He has been instrumental in securing the recognition and protection of socio-economic rights for the Nigerian people. Furthermore, he has spearheaded successful campaigns for the enactment of welfare laws benefitting underprivileged citizens and is credited with significant contributions to the expansion of democratic space in Africa. He also serves as a consultant to the Presidential Committee Against Corruption. Notable Works and Publications Falana has authored numerous articles and publications addressing legal, political, and human rights issues. His writings, such as *Governance in Post Military Nigeria Fundamental Rights Enforcement* (2005), serve as important critiques of the status quo and contribute significantly to the national discourse on governance and accountability. Current Status and Recognition Mr. Falana continues to practice law as the Principal Partner at Falana & Falana's Chambers. His work has earned him several accolades, including the International Bar Association's Bernard Simons Memorial Award (2008), making him one of only four African lawyers to receive the honor. He is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Chartered Arbitrators (NICArb) and a member of various esteemed bodies such as the Nigerian Bar Association, the International Bar Association, and the Pan African Lawyers Union.