His Excellency,
Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Aso Rock Villa, Three Arms Zone
Garki, Abuja
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Rename LUTH After Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti and Grant Him a Posthumous National Honour
By Debo Adeniran
Your Excellency,
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) remembers and honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Bekolari Ransome-Kuti, a fearless human rights activist, medical doctor, and relentless advocate for democracy and social justice in Nigeria.
His unwavering commitment to the rights of ordinary Nigerians, good governance, and accountability helped shape the country’s civil society movement. His work remains an inspiration for all who continue the struggle for a better nation.
Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti was the first President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR), the first elected Chairman of the Campaign for Democracy (CD), and a founding member of the Citizens’ Forum. He also served as Chairman of the Lagos branch of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and as its national deputy, using his platform to advocate for improved healthcare and the availability of essential drugs in hospitals.
Additionally, he was the Executive Director of the Centre for Constitutional Governance (CCG) and played a key role in nearly all the democratic struggles that led to Nigeria’s current democratic dispensation.
Notably, he served as Chairman of the Board of Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), where his leadership ensured that all healthcare professionals—consultants, surgeons, and others—remained dedicated to their duties.
If Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti were alive today, Nigeria would undoubtedly still benefit from his leadership, activism, and unyielding courage. His voice would have been a formidable force against corruption, human rights abuses, and the erosion of democratic values. His commitment to justice and equality would have strengthened civil society and empowered Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability.
His expertise in medicine and advocacy for improved healthcare would have further contributed to the fight for accessible and affordable medical services for all Nigerians. His role in pro-democracy struggles and his defense of press freedom would have continued to promote an informed and engaged citizenry—fostering a Nigeria where the rule of law prevails over oppression.
Nigeria still grapples with many of the challenges Dr. Ransome-Kuti dedicated his life to addressing, including human rights violations, poor governance, and economic inequality. However, his legacy remains a call to action for those who believe in justice, fairness, and a Nigeria that truly works for all.
As we reflect on his invaluable contributions, we must renew our commitment to the ideals he fought for—holding leaders accountable, advocating for the marginalized, and building a nation where every citizen enjoys the full benefits of democracy and good governance.
Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti may no longer be physically present, but his vision for a just and equitable Nigeria lives on. We owe it to his memory and to future generations to continue the struggle for a better nation. We must not give up on Nigeria, just as Dr. Beko refused to give up while he was alive.
Your Excellency, you will recall that Dr. Beko stood alongside you during the struggle for democracy. He was unrelenting, even when the military made life difficult for activists. He served as a backbone of the movement, inspiring younger generations. While some activists were forced into exile, he remained on the home front, tirelessly fighting from all angles to ensure that the democratic struggle succeeded.
In light of his immense contributions, we humbly request that Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti be awarded a posthumous national honor. Additionally, we urge you to rename the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) after him to truly immortalize his legacy.
Yours sincerely,
Debo Adeniran
National President, CDHR
Chairman, CACOL
📞 08037194969
✉️ debo@deboadeniran.com
✉️ cacolc@yahoo.com
🌐 www.deboadeniran.com
CC:
- The Senate
- The Federal House of Representatives
