Babatunde Irukera Biography
Babatunde Irukera Ayokunle was born on September 4, 1968, in Kaduna, Nigeria, to Ayo and Lola Irukera. His formative years were shaped by a blend of Nigerian culture and familial influence, fostering a strong foundation for his future endeavors. In 1995, he ventured to the United States, marking the beginning of an illustrious journey in law and public service.
Babatunde Irukera Education
His academic journey commenced with a Bachelor of Laws degree from Obafemi Awolowo University in 1989. Subsequently, he attained a Business Level certification from the Nigerian Law School in Lagos in 1990. Babatunde Irukera’s dedication to legal studies laid the groundwork for his professional success and eventual global influence.
Babatunde Irukera Career
Babatunde Irukera’s career trajectory exemplifies his commitment to law and public service across multiple roles and jurisdictions. He commenced his professional journey as Counsel at Rims Merchant Bank in Lagos from 1990 to 1993, honing his legal expertise in financial and corporate matters.
Subsequently, he served as General Counsel at Associated Properties & Trust from 1993 to 1995, gaining invaluable experience in real estate law and corporate governance. His pursuit of legal excellence led him to the United States, where he embarked on a career as a legal practitioner and advocate.
He became a Partner at Thomas & Irukera LLC in Chicago from 1997 to 2002, contributing his legal acumen to a wide array of cases and matters. Since 2002, he has been an esteemed member of Partners, Attorneys, & Counselors, leveraging his legal expertise across various sectors and industries.
In addition to his legal practice, Babatunde Irukera serves as an Advisor to the Fate Foundation, an organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth in Nigeria. His role as a Director at Gosheen and the Academy Early Learning demonstrates his commitment to community development and education.
Babatunde Irukera Fired By President Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has fired Mr. Babatunde Irukera, the head of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), which safeguards consumers in the country. This was confirmed in a statement issued by Mr. Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, late Monday.
Irukera, a member of Tinubu’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), was removed because of plans to reshape crucial government agencies to shield the rights of Nigerian consumers and bolster the economy through key growth-focused institutions.
He was appointed as the CEO of the FCCPC by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2017 when it was known as the Consumer Protection Council (CPC). During his tenure, actions were taken, including shutting down the well-known Lagos-based confectionery brand Krispy Kreme Doughnuts in 2018 and addressing challenges faced by Pay TV service Multichoice Nigeria Limited for raising service costs.
Recently, a $110 million fine was imposed on British American Tobacco (BAT) for market competition violations, and it has been paid.
Additionally, President Tinubu also dismissed Mr. Alexander Ayoola Okoh as the Director-General/CEO of the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE), responsible for privatizing public enterprises, conducting sector reforms, and opening up key economic sectors.
Both ousted executives were instructed to hand over to the next most senior officer in their agencies, effective immediately following the President’s directive.
Babatunde Irukera Personal Life
Babatunde Irukera’s personal life is anchored by his marriage to Mabel Foluke Irukera since May 14, 1994. The union has been blessed with three children— IFE, Kitan, and Fentan— who form the cornerstone of his family life.
Babatunde Irukera Net Worth
Babatunde Irukera, a distinguished Nigerian lawyer admitted to the bars in Nigeria, Washington, and various circuits in Illinois, possesses an estimated net worth of $200,000. His financial standing, acquired through years of legal practice and advocacy, mirrors his dedication to the legal profession and his commitment to public service and community development.
Sage is a financial/consumer journalist and senior editor, personal finance, of TrendsHQ. EXPERTISE: Personal Finance, Careers, Jobs, Scholarships, and Entertainment.