The power of persistence: The pursuit of Paul Harris Ogbole

By: Alfred Omakwu

“Permanence, perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragements and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak”These are the words of Thomas Carlyle.

The validity of this statement has been made manifest in the lives of world great leaders, such as Abraham Lilcon, Thomas Ederson, and in our contemporary time and immediate society President Muhammadu Buharri. These mean pushed against all odds and obstacles to achieve their goals and attain greatness in their pursuit.

In my journey of life I have come across great men and women who have demonstrated will, passion, commitment, and uncommon determination and persistence. One of such men is Bar. Paul Haris Ogbole.

My encounter with him contributed in strenghtning my core ideologies and principles that guides my actions and pursuit for life. At moments where my insistence was inaccessible to some he had always encouraged me to stand what I believe in especially when it has to do with my passion for justice and the collective good of all.

Upon discovering his penchant for humanity and his demonstration of interest in my person, Harris Ogbole became a mentor, a father and a confidant and has always been supportive of my course.

Born on the 21st of June 1965 to the family of Chief Emmanuel Omaji Ogbole, in Adoka, Otukpo local government Area of Benue State. His proven passion for learning and greatness saw him pass through different faces of academic pursuit which led into bagging a degree in law University of Jos where he came out with the best result.
He obtained his Barrister of Law from (BL) from Nigeria law school, Lagos.
With so much positive records as the Head of Litigation with Deji Sasegbon & Co (SAN), he immediately earned himself a position of a Deputy Editor with the DSC Publications Ltd.
1989 he became the legal Advisor of the Mobile Telecommunication Service Limited (A joint venture of digital communications Ltd. Atlanta, USA and Nigeria Telecommunication Plc) 1992 DigitalCommunication Ltd gave him another offer as the Company Secretary/Executive Assistant to the Managing Director:
1995 he was made Company Secretary/Legal Advisor: Osam Associates Nig. Ltd. (An Affiliate of MTS)
1995 Principal/Managing Partner:
Suswam, Ogbole & Co., Attorneys at Law (GENERATION CHAMBERS).
It was at this point that he was made the Chairman, Caretakers Committee, Otukpo. During his tenure, Education and Health systems were given utmost priorities.
As the then Vice Chairman, Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Benue State Chapter. He fought and stood for transparency and accountability while they were in office.
Because of his uncommon qualities he became Hon. commissioner/board member, economic and finicial crime commission.

Today this man who is from a supposed “minority” has written his name and that of his root ( Idoma nation) in gold, little wonders against all odds he is among the few to be confered the much reverenced position of Senior advocate of Nigeria ( SAN) joining other great Idoma sons like Godwin Obla is making us proud.

The accession of Paul Haris shows how blessed the Idoma people are and the point to the glittering hope for every young person with a passion to serve.

For me, I have been privilege like the biblical Mary Magdalene to learn at his feet, I have been encouraged times without numbers by this great man , what more can I say, like the Bible says all things works together for good for they that love God and are called according to his purpose.

It’s my believe also like the Bible says , eyes have not seen, ears have not heard neither has it entered into the heart of men what God has in store for you.

Congratulations as you become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria.

Your son
Alfred Omakwu Oketa.