From Fisherman to Senior Advocate of Nigeria: The Inspiring Journey of Chief Olusola Oke. {My Success Story)
...How he dropped out of primary school because of poverty, but ended up becoming a successful wealthy lawyer.
By Charles Segun Adegbite
From the depths of poverty to the pinnacle of success, Chief Olusola Oke's life story is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and unwavering faith.
Born into abject poverty, he was forced to drop out of school at the tender age of seven and take up fishing to survive.
Yet, despite the odds stacked against him, Chief Oke refused to be defined by his circumstances. Instead, he rose like a phoenix from the ashes, driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a burning desire to make a difference.
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Today, as a renowned Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a veteran politician, Chief Oke's journey serves as a beacon of hope for countless individuals struggling to overcome adversity. His story is a powerful reminder that with hard work, perseverance, and a steadfast commitment to one's goals, even the most seemingly insurmountable challenges can be overcome.
Now, get ready to be inspired by the extraordinary life of Chief Olusola Oke, a true embodiment of the Nigerian spirit of resilience and determination.
Birth and Family Background
Chief Olusola Alexander Oke was born on April 7, 1956, in Ilowo, a coastal town in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria. His father hailed from Ilaje, while his mother was from Imoru town in Ose Local Government Area of the same state. Despite the humble beginnings, Chief Oke's life is a testament to the power of determination and hard work.
He attended UNA Primary School, Ode-Ilowo, between 1961 and 1963 but dropped out at the age of seven due to poverty.
Education and Early Life Challenges
Chief Oke's educational journey was not without its challenges. He attended UNA Primary School, Ode-Ilowo, between 1961 and 1963 but dropped out at the age of seven due to poverty. He then became a professional fisherman, living and earning his living from the creek of the rivers in Ilaje and its environs.
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However, his quest for knowledge compelled him to abandon fishing and return to school. He completed his primary education at Methodist Primary School, Ilepete in 1973 and later attended Methodist Secondary Modern School, Ilepete, and Ilaje Grammar School, Atijere.
From Fishing to Law School
Chief Oke's journey to becoming a lawyer was nothing short of remarkable. After completing his secondary education, he taught briefly as an auxiliary teacher at Happy City College, Ayetero and Methodist High School, Okitipupa. In 1981, he was admitted to the Ondo State School of Arts and Science, Ikare, but his life took a dramatic turn when he received an offer to study law at the prestigious University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1982. He graduated with a degree in Law in 1986 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1987.
His Career as a Lawyer
Chief Oke's legal career began in 1987 when he joined Olufemi Lanlehin and Co., a law firm in Ikeja, Lagos. He later established his law firm, Olusola Oke and Associates, in Okitipupa on July 14, 1988. His law firm has since grown, with its headquarters in Abuja. Chief Oke's expertise in law earned him the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) on multiple occasions.
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Adventure into Politics
Chief Oke's entry into politics was a natural progression of his desire to serve his people. He was a popular youth activist in the ranks of Ilaje Patriotic Front (IPF), a frontline youth pressure group in the late 80's. He was appointed Local Government Legal Adviser of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 1991 and later elected as a member of the Federal House of Representatives representing Ilaje/Ese-odo federal constituency in 1992.
Social Life and Legacy
Chief Oke's contributions to society extend beyond his legal practice. He served as the National Legal Adviser of the PDP between 2008 and 2012 and was appointed into the pioneer board of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in 2000. He executed and completed over 250 projects during his tenure. He also served as the Executive Chairman of the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) and Chairman of the Federal Polytechnic Bida, among other notable appointments.
Marriage and Family Life
Chief Oke is happily married to Chief Nkem Olusola Oke, and together, they are blessed with children. His family life is a testament to his strong values and commitment to his loved ones.
Chief Olusola Oke's life is a shining example of what can be achieved through determination, hard work, and a strong desire to succeed. From a primary school dropout and fisherman to a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a successful politician, his journey is an inspiration to many.
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