By Francis Wilfred
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has paid tribute to the late Dr. Olatunji Braithwaite, describing him as a towering figure of justice, integrity, and courage whose legacy continues to shape Nigeria’s legal, political, and social development.
The President spoke in Abuja at the 10th Anniversary Memorial Lecture in honour of the late legal luminary and founder of the Nigeria Advance Party (NAP). He was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON.
President Tinubu noted that Dr. Braithwaite’s lifelong advocacy for social justice, equity, and restructuring aligns closely with the progressive philosophy of the All Progressives Congress and the Renewed Hope Agenda. He cited ongoing government initiatives such as conditional cash transfers, rural road development, expanded healthcare for pregnant women, and educational support for underprivileged students as reflections of those ideals.
“If Dr. Braithwaite were here today, he would have been a major partner in our administration in building the Nigeria of our dreams,” the President stated.
The President also praised Dr. Braithwaite’s intellectual contributions, including Emancipation of Africa and The Jurisprudence of the Living Oracles, as well as his role in championing landmark legal victories for Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Fela Anikulapo Kuti. He highlighted the late statesman’s advocacy at the 2014 National Conference.
Chairman of the Memorial Lecture, Chief Bisi Akande, described Dr. Braithwaite as “a custodian of conscience” and challenged leaders to emulate his principled stance.
Representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue, Mr. Opeyemi Abdul-Kabir Ogungbo, called Dr. Braithwaite “the conscience of the nation” and urged young Nigerians to embrace his values of honesty, courage, and service.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of a Presidential Award to President Tinubu by the Tunji Braithwaite Foundation, an award to Governor Sanwo-Olu, and the official launch of Dr. Braithwaite’s biography by Sen. George Akume.
