Ayokunle Odekunle, a Nigerian legal practitioner based in Alberta, Canada, has passed away after a prolonged battle with gastric cancer.
Odekunle, affectionately known as Oddy, was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer in 2020 and fought courageously until his demise on Friday.
The announcement of Odekunle’s passing was made by Kaycee Madu, the Nigerian-born former minister of justice and solicitor-general of Alberta. Madu highlighted Odekunle’s resilience, noting that he had recently been called to the Alberta Bar in June 2023 despite his terminal illness.
In a statement posted on social media, Madu expressed deep sadness over the loss, describing Ayokunle Odekunle as a brilliant young lawyer who stood for justice, merit, and good governance.
Odekunle’s passion for the legal profession, even in the face of illness, reflected his dedication to the practice of law.
Ayokunle Odekunle, an alumnus of the University of Ibadan, graduated in 2011 and was called to the Nigerian Bar.
Throughout his career, he actively engaged in litigation and contributed to various media platforms, including YNaija, where he published op-eds and commentaries. Married to Halima, Odekunle leaves behind his wife and two children.
