'I WAS SO FRUSTRATED I CONSIDERED QUITTING LAW PRACTICE' - AKINLAWON

Titilola Akinlawon (SAN), a litigator and Founding Partner of Lagos-based law firm, Akinlawon & Ajomo, speaks to FAITH AJAYI about her journey in the legal profession

You’ve spent decades in the legal profession and attained the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. When you look back at the young girl from Yaba with big dreams, what emotions come to mind today?

The first thing that comes to mind is sober gratitude to God that I am here, alive, and successful on all fronts. I have been married for almost 40 years, we are still together, and we have successful children and grandchildren.

When I reflect on those days, I remember the dreams we had. Back then, we would see people driving cars while we trekked home from school, even though my parents had cars. We always imagined that one day we would live in fine houses, drive big cars, and achieve great things.

Looking back now, it is all about gratitude to God because those dreams eventually became reality.

What kind of child were you?

I was very daring, outspoken and aggressive. I used to fight boys. I attended an all-girls primary school, but my brothers went to a mixed school. After school, we all met along the road, and because I was tall, I always defended my immediate elder brother, who was very small in stature.

I remember taking my father’s belt, hiding it in my bag, and using it to flog boys who tried to bully him.

I was a go-getter even then. Once I wanted something done, I pursued it until it was achieved.

Was there a defining moment that made you decide to study law?

Far from it. I never planned to become a lawyer. After my A-levels, I wanted to study Economics, but because I only had a pass in Mathematics, I could not gain admission into the department.

At the time, there were only a few universities, and the next best option available to me at the University of Lagos was Law. So, I simply fell into it.

With hindsight, I realise it was probably God’s plan because I do not even enjoy Economics. Whenever people discuss budgets and financial policies, I find it boring. But law is where I feel completely at home.

You were called to the Bar in 1981, at a time when the legal profession was still male-dominated. What were some of the subtle battles people never saw behind the scenes?

Those battles still exist today. As a woman, you are often marginalised, so you have to prove yourself repeatedly.

I remember appearing in court in Kaduna State many years ago. The opposing counsel underestimated me simply because I was a woman. But once I began my presentation, other lawyers in court started taking notes, and even the judge was impressed because I had done my homework thoroughly.

That is why I always say women must work twice as hard as their male counterparts. Society already places women at a disadvantage, so you must be prepared to stand your ground.

Many young lawyers romanticise being a SAN. What sacrifices did you make that people rarely talk about?

It required a lot of sacrifice and hard work. Litigation took me all over the country — Warri, Benin, Akure, Uyo — and balancing it with family life was difficult.

I remember one tribunal matter that lasted 21 consecutive days. I had already bought vacation tickets for my children and I, thinking the courts would go on recess in July. But the judge announced that the tribunal would sit daily without a break.

I had to cancel my trip, send my children ahead with someone else, and work almost without sleep for 21 days. After court each day, I would return home and continue writing my final address late into the night.

Those are the sacrifices people rarely see.

You started your career as a lecturer during NYSC before moving fully into litigation. Did teaching shape the kind of lawyer you eventually became?

Teaching law is completely different from being an advocate. Academics focuses on theory, while litigation is practical. Law school is supposed to teach practice, but even there, much of it remains theoretical.

Real advocacy is learnt through experience in courtrooms.

Litigation is known to be intense and mentally draining. What kept you going during overwhelming periods?

Passion. I genuinely enjoy litigation. There was a period I became frustrated because cases dragged endlessly in court. I even considered leaving the profession.

At one point, I stopped appearing in court for a few months and explored other businesses, including selling clothes. But I quickly realised it was not for me.

I returned to law with the resolve that no one would frustrate me out of something I loved doing.

You eventually left an established law firm to co-found your own practice. Was that move driven by courage, ambition, or necessity?

Necessity. I never imagined I would own a law firm because I dislike publicity. I worried about how to attract clients and build a proper law library.

But my partner and I eventually decided it was time to leave where we worked because we were not getting what we deserved.

Today, Akinlawon & Ajomo has spent over 25 years in existence, and I am grateful for how far we have come.

What has been the most rewarding moment of your legal career?

People would expect me to say becoming a SAN, but honestly, the small victories in court give me the greatest fulfilment.

Helping a widow regain access to her late husband’s property or obtaining an order that protects someone in distress; those are the moments that truly invigorate me.

Was there ever a courtroom experience that changed your outlook on life?

There have been several, but one incident stands out vividly. I was travelling to court in Ota (Ogun State) with a colleague when she told me her father had warned her against following me because he believed I must be a “witch” to have the courage to face certain powerful lawyers.

As we discussed, something suddenly made me move my car to the other side of the road. Moments later, a truck carrying gravel collapsed exactly where we had been driving.

That experience strengthened my faith profoundly. Since then, whenever I handle sensitive land or chieftaincy matters, I spend time praying before going to court.

Beyond the wigs and robes, who is Titilola Akinlawon when the workday ends?

The moment I leave my office, I deliberately forget about law. I made that decision years ago while raising my children.

I enjoy music, dancing, parties, dressing up and reading novels. I have a large personal library. I also shut down my phone early because I value rest and personal time.

You’ve spoken extensively about women, children and family law. What sparked that passion?

Ironically, I never studied Family Law in university because I thought it was unimportant. But over time, I encountered widows and children suffering injustice, and I felt compelled to help them.

That was how I gradually became involved in that area of advocacy.

What is the biggest misconception people have about successful women in law?

People think it comes easily. They see lawyers speaking confidently in court and assume it happens effortlessly.

What they do not realise is the amount of research and preparation that goes on behind the scenes.

Where were you when you received the news of becoming a SAN?

I was seated right here in my office. A colleague who was on the panel simply called me and said, “My Learned Silk,” then dropped the call.

Immediately, I understood what it meant. I was stunned and overjoyed. My brother later came with wine, and we celebrated together.

How did you balance motherhood, marriage and such a demanding career?

Discipline and support. My husband was very supportive. He helped with the children whenever I was unavailable.

I organised my life carefully. I woke up early, prepared meals ahead of time, and structured my schedule strictly. Discipline was key.

Young lawyers today often talk about burnout and uncertainty. What advice would you give them?

If you are truly passionate about something, you must motivate yourself. You need a clear vision of where you are going and remain focused on achieving it.

Hard work, discipline and persistence are non-negotiable.

Outside the courtroom, what brings you the most joy these days?

My grandchildren bring me immense joy. I am also fulfilled when I see how many people our law firm employs and supports through their families. That gives me a sense of purpose.

What legacy would you like to leave behind?

I started the Household of Love Foundation for street boys in Abeokuta because many people focus on the girl child while neglecting boys on the streets.

I have helped to train several boys who are now successful professionals, including lawyers and doctors.

I also hope the law firm outlives me, and continues to grow long after I am gone.

This interview was originally published in THE PUNCH newspaper