By Nkechi Eze
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to the late legal icon, Dr. Olatunji Braithwaite, describing him as a towering figure whose lifelong commitment to justice, integrity, and courage continues to influence Nigeria’s legal and political evolution.
According to an official signed statement by the Head, Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chris Ugwuegbulam, the President made the remarks in Abuja during the 10th Anniversary Memorial Lecture held in honour of the late founder of the Nigeria Advance Party. The President was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, CON.
President Tinubu described Dr. Braithwaite as “a resilient voice for justice and a beacon of hope,” noting that his advocacy for social justice, equity, and national restructuring aligns with the progressive ideals of the All Progressives Congress and the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He pointed to key government initiatives, including conditional cash transfers, rural infrastructure development, expanded healthcare access for pregnant women, and educational support for vulnerable groups, as practical expressions of the values championed by the late legal luminary.
“If Dr. Braithwaite were here today, he would have been a major partner in our administration to build the Nigeria of our dreams,” the President stated, adding that the establishment of the Nigeria Advance Party in 1978 reflected a bold vision to reshape the country’s political landscape through progressive reforms aimed at combating corruption and promoting social equity.
The President also highlighted Dr. Braithwaite’s intellectual legacy, referencing his works, Emancipation of Africa and The Jurisprudence of the Living Oracles, as well as his role in notable legal struggles involving Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Fela Anikulapo Kuti. He further acknowledged the late statesman’s contributions at the 2014 National Conference.
In his remarks, Chairman of the Memorial Lecture, Chief Bisi Akande, described Dr. Braithwaite as “a custodian of conscience,” urging Nigerian leaders to embrace principled leadership. He stressed that the nation’s challenges stem not from a lack of resources but from inconsistencies in value-driven governance.
Also speaking, Mr. Opeyemi Abdul-Kabir Ogungbo, who represented Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, described the late Braithwaite as “the conscience of the nation,” calling on young Nigerians to uphold his ideals of integrity, courage, and service. He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to justice and good governance.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of a Presidential Award to President Tinubu by the Tunji Braithwaite Foundation, recognition of Governor Sanwo-Olu, and the official launch of Dr. Braithwaite’s biography by Senator Akume.
