Stop the Noise! – Wike’s Aide Slams Femi Falana Over ‘Empty’ Legal Activism

Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has accused Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana of misleading the public during a national TV appearance.

Olayinka made the remarks in reaction to Falana’s comments on the Supreme Court’s decision regarding the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. Speaking on Channels Television, Falana had asserted that the Supreme Court’s ruling “had nothing to do with determining the legitimate Speaker of the House.”

In a statement released by Olayinka, he described Falana’s remarks as deceptive and criticized the SAN’s credibility. He ridiculed the notion that only lawyers who have argued in trial or appellate courts are qualified for appointments to the Body of Benchers.

Olayinka challenged Falana to name the significant cases he has won or specific contributions he has made to the legal profession that justified his SAN title, dismissing him as merely an “arranged” lawyer serving political interests.

He defended Wike’s own appointment to the Body of Benchers, claiming it was earned through notable contributions to legal education. According to Olayinka, Wike played a pivotal role in the development of the Port Harcourt campus of the Nigerian Law School during his tenure as Governor of Rivers State. He also contributed significantly to the Yenagoa campus and, now as FCT Minister, is building housing units for the Nigerian Law School in Bwari, Abuja, and has provided the institution with operational vehicles.

Olayinka concluded by questioning Falana’s track record:
“Aside from making noise on television, what has Falana truly done for the legal profession?” he asked.
He noted that in Ekiti State, Falana’s home state, key contributions to the legal community came from Aare Afe Babalola and Chief Wole Olanipekun, who have built Bar Centres and supported lawyers through various initiatives.
“What has Falana done in comparison? Absolutely nothing,” he declared.