Born on July 15, 1961, in Lagos, Ogala began his educational journey at Holy Cross School in Lagos from 1967 to 1973 and continued at St. George’s College from 1974 to 1979. He pursued his passion for law at the University of Jos, where he studied from 1980 to 1985. After graduating with honors, he attended the Nigerian Law School and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1986. Hon. Babatunde John Kwame Ogala SAN has carved a distinguished path as a legal practitioner, politician, and public servant. His career began with Fonzzy Associates Limited in Lagos and flourished in several renowned law firms, including Chief Fola Akinrinsola & Co, Femi Okunnu (SAN) & Co, and G.M. Ibru & Co. His reputation as a brilliant legal mind was further cemented during his tenure as General Counsel of Guardian Press Limited.
Ogala’s legal career commenced at Fonzzy Associates Limited, Lagos. He then honed his skills at several prestigious law firms, including Chief Fola Akinrinsola & Co, Femi Okunnu (SAN) & Co (Solicitors), and G.M. Ibru & Co, where he distinguished himself as a brilliant legal practitioner. His expertise earned him the position of General Counsel (Legal Adviser) at Guardian Press Limited. In 1997, Ogala founded his law firm, Babatunde K. Ogala, which later underwent a transformation and was rebranded as Babatunde Ogala &Co in 2011. With Ogala at the helm, the firm quickly garnered a sterling reputation for its legal prowess. Ogala’s unwavering dedication to upholding high standards and ensuring client satisfaction played a pivotal role in establishing the firm as a beacon of excellence in the legal field. Under Ogala’s guidance, Babatunde Ogala &Co navigated through complex legal landscapes with precision and expertise.
Ogala’s political journey commenced actively in 2007 when he secured a seat in the esteemed Lagos State House of Assembly, marking the onset of his impactful career in politics. Throughout his tenure, he assumed the pivotal role of Chairman of the House Committee on Judiciary, showcasing his adept leadership and strong decision-making skills. Additionally, he was a member of several other key committees, including Finance, Public Accounts, Ethics, Protocol and Privileges, Human Rights and Public Petition, and Infrastructure. Moreover, Ogala’s profound understanding of legal matters and governance rendered him a sought-after consultant for the Lagos State House of Assembly and the Conference of Speakers in 2014. His insightful perspectives and strategic guidance proved invaluable in shaping legislative agendas and fostering collaboration among lawmakers.
Returning to politics in 2018, Ogala took on the role of National Legal Adviser within the All Progressives Congress (APC), showcasing his expertise in legal matters within the political realm. His strategic legal acumen proved to be instrumental during the crucial 2023 presidential election. In this pivotal moment, Ogala’s skills were put to the test as he navigated through a myriad of legal challenges that arose during the electoral process. Throughout the 2023 presidential election, Ogala’s role as the National Legal Adviser of the APC was not merely administrative but rather one of strategic importance. He worked tirelessly behind the scenes, advising key party members and candidates on legal matters, and crafting legal arguments to defend the party’s interests. Ogala’s dedication and legal prowess were widely recognized within the political sphere, solidifying his reputation as a respected legal figure within the APC.
His professional affiliations are numerous, including membership in the Nigerian Bar Association, the African Bar Association, the American Bar Association and International Bar Association. His contributions to law and governance have been recognized with fellowships in several prestigious organizations, including the Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners Association of Nigeria and the Institute of Management Consultants, Nigeria. In recognition of his contributions, Ogala was conferred with the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 2020. His legacy as a legal titan and political stalwart continues to inspire many within and beyond Nigeria.
