Chief Bola Ige SAN (1930-2001) was a brilliant lawyer, politician, and orator known as the "Cicero of Esa-Oke" for his eloquent speeches. Born in Ibadan, Ige studied law at University College London. As Governor of old Oyo State (1979-1983), he implemented progressive policies including educational reforms. His tenure as Attorney General under Obasanjo (1999-2001) focused on judicial reforms and anti-corruption efforts. Ige was renowned for his intellectual depth, combining Western education with deep understanding of Yoruba culture. His speeches mixed English, Yoruba proverbs, and Latin phrases. Tragically, he was assassinated in his Ibadan home in December 2001, a murder that shocked Nigeria and remains unsolved. Ige's death highlighted Nigeria's political violence problem. His legacy lives through his children, including Ekiti State Governor Kayode Fayemi, and in the memory of those who value intellectual engagement in politics.


LEGAL SCHOLAR AND POLICY ARCHITECT:
Chief Bola Ige combined razor-sharp intellect with a passion for public service. Called to the English Bar at the Inner Temple in 1961, he returned to Nigeria to build one of the country’s most respected law practices and eventually earned the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. His legal texts and courtroom advocacy shaped jurisprudence on constitutional rights, media freedom, and electoral integrity.

GOVERNANCE AND REFORMS:
As governor of old Oyo State (1979-1983), Ige prioritised free and qualitative education, establishing science schools, rehabilitating rural roads, and extending electricity to farming communities. He launched massive immunisation campaigns and modernised state broadcasting so citizens could access timely information. His insistence on fiscal responsibility and people-centred budgeting made Oyo a model for progressive governance.

VOICE FOR DEMOCRACY:
During military rule, Ige became a leading figure in the pro-democracy movement, lending his voice to NADECO and defending political prisoners in court. His newspaper columns—laced with satire, Yoruba proverbs, and Latin phrases—fearlessly critiqued authoritarianism. As Attorney General of the Federation (1999-2001), he pushed reforms on judicial independence, alternative dispute resolution, and rule-of-law institutions.

ENDURING LEGACY:
Though his assassination in December 2001 remains unresolved, the values he championed endure through the Bola Ige Foundation, scholarships, and annual memorial lectures that train young lawyers and civic leaders. His collected speeches continue to inspire citizens who seek integrity in public office.

FAST FACTS:
- Full name: James Ajibola Idowu Ige SAN, CFR (born 13 September 1930; died 23 December 2001).
- Key publications: People, Politics and Politicians of Nigeria (1979), Kaduna Boy (1993).
- Political platforms: Action Group, Unity Party of Nigeria, Alliance for Democracy.
- Known as the “Cicero of Esa-Oke” for oratorical brilliance and fearless advocacy.