Unilorin Beats Crescent, UNIBEN to Claim Top Spot in Nigeria Law Competition

The University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) has emerged as the winner of the inaugural Moot and Mock competition organized by the Law Students’ Society (LSS) in partnership with Lukman O. Fagbemi & Co.

The event, which drew participation from about 20 universities across Nigeria, including Obafemi Awolowo University, University of Ibadan, University of Benin, and the host institution, featured multiple competitive stages such as memorial writing, debates, quizzes, and a mock trial presided over by Magistrate Gbenga Abdullah of the Magistrate Court, Ilorin.

At the grand finale, UNILORIN claimed first place, followed by Crescent University in second, University of Benin in third, and Osun State University in fourth. Winners received cash prizes of N700,000, N500,000, N400,000, and N300,000 respectively, while individual participants and teams were recognized with various awards.

Speaking at the event, UNILORIN LSS President Ibraheem Abdulrasheed said the competition was designed to develop strong advocacy skills among aspiring lawyers and provide a platform to engage with real-life legal scenarios. “This competition reflects our commitment to nurturing a new generation of lawyers who are not only academically proficient but also courtroom-ready,” he added.

The competition was held in honour of Prince Lukman Fagbemi, SAN, a UNILORIN alumnus and LSS President during the 2007/2008 academic session. Fagbemi expressed gratitude to the organisers and pledged continued support to ensure the competition becomes an annual fixture. “Initiatives like this bridge the gap between theory and practice, giving students practical exposure to the legal profession,” he said.

David Ogundipe, Lead Partner at Earnest Attorneys LP and also a UNILORIN alumnus, urged young lawyers to continuously hone their advocacy skills, uphold integrity, and embrace lifelong learning in their careers.

The event was attended by Professor Muritala Sambo, representing the Dean of the Faculty of Law, UNILORIN, Professor Bashir Omipidan, alongside lecturers, friends, and colleagues of the honouree.