Tinubu Honours Braithwaite At Memorial Lecture
President highlights late lawyer’s contributions to justice and political reform
Dr. Nafisat Makinde, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday paid tribute to late lawyer and political activist Dr. Olatunji Braithwaite, describing him as a prominent voice for justice, equity and democratic reform in Nigeria.
Tinubu, represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, spoke at the 10th anniversary memorial lecture held in Abuja in honour of Braithwaite, founder of the Nigeria Advance Party.
The information was contained in a statement released by Chris Ugwuegbulam, Head, Information and Public Relations, on May 4, 2026.
The president said Braithwaite’s advocacy for social justice, restructuring and accountable governance continued to resonate in Nigeria’s political development.
“If Dr. Braithwaite were alive today, he would have been a valuable partner in building the Nigeria we envision,” Tinubu said.
Braithwaite founded the Nigeria Advance Party in 1978 and was known for his calls for political reform, anti-corruption measures and social equity. He also participated in national policy discussions, including the 2014 National Conference.
Tinubu noted Braithwaite’s legal and intellectual contributions, including his writings Emancipation of Africa and The Jurisprudence of the Living Oracles. He also referenced Braithwaite’s legal advocacy involving Obafemi Awolowo and Fela Anikulapo Kuti.
Chairman of the occasion, Bisi Akande, described Braithwaite as “a custodian of conscience” and called for principled leadership in the country.
“Nigeria’s challenge is not a lack of intelligence or resources, but a deficit of consistent, principled leadership,” Akande said.
Representing Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Special Adviser on Taxation and Revenue Opeyemi Abdul-Kabir Ogungbo described Braithwaite as “the conscience of the nation” and encouraged young Nigerians to embrace values of honesty, courage and public service.
The event also featured the presentation of an award to Tinubu by the Tunji Braithwaite Foundation, recognition of Sanwo-Olu and the launch of Braithwaite’s biography by Akume.