By ANGELA ATABO

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to late Dr Olatunji Braithwaite, describing him as a towering patriot.

He said Braithwaite’s contributions to Nigeria’s legal, political, and social development would inspire generations yet unborn.

Tinubu spoke on Saturday in Abuja during the 10th memorial lecture held in Braithwaite’s honour.

The lecture was under the theme: ‘Politics with Conscience: Leadership, Responsibility, and the Nigerian Contract’.

The President was represented by Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The President said Braithwaite’s life symbolised courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to justice.

He described the late legal icon as a fearless advocate for accountability and democratic values.

“His contributions shaped our collective consciousness and strengthened faith in principled leadership.

“He showed Nigerians that leadership is not about convenience, but about sacrifice and service,” he said.

Tinubu said Braithwaite’s ideals aligned with efforts to build a progressive and inclusive Nigeria.

“If he were alive today, he would support efforts aimed at building a fairer nation,” he said.

The President said Braithwaite believed deeply in social justice and responsible governance.

He added that such convictions remained relevant in Nigeria’s present democratic journey.

Tinubu urged citizens to draw inspiration from Braithwaite’s dedication to public service.

He said national transformation required integrity, discipline, and collective responsibility.

Chairman of the occasion, Chief Bisi Akande, praised Braithwaite’s exceptional moral courage.

Akande described him as a custodian of conscience and defender of democratic principles.

“This gathering is not merely for remembrance, but for reflection and renewal,” Akande said.

He said Braithwaite rejected comfort whenever it threatened truth or justice. “He stood with ordinary Nigerians, not only in words, but through action,” he said.

Akande recalled Braithwaite’s participation in protests, even in his later years.

He said the late elder statesman endured hardship alongside citizens demanding justice. “That is leadership in its purest and most meaningful form,” Akande said.

Akande said Nigeria’s greatest struggle remained sustaining principled leadership.

He noted that the nation possessed talent, resources, and enormous human potential. “What Nigeria needs is leadership that remains consistent under pressure,” he said.

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, also honoured the late elder statesman.

Sanwo-Olu was represented by Ogunbo Opeyemi, his adviser on taxation and revenue.

The governor said Braithwaite’s influence shaped constitutional advocacy and civic engagement in Lagos.

“His dream may remain unfinished, but it is certainly not unreachable,” he said, adding that Braithwaite’s life offered direction for future generations.

“May his legacy remain a standard for service, courage, and justice,” the governor prayed.

Managing Director of the News Agency of Nigeria, Ali M. Ali, praised Braithwaite’s media influence.

Ali described him as an enigma who understood the power of communication.

“He gave strong quotes, sharp insights, and fearless perspectives,” Ali said, noting that journalists valued Braithwaite’s boldness and intellectual depth.

Ali said his public interventions often shaped national political conversations. “Reporters saw him as a dependable defender of truth and justice,” he said.

He recalled Braithwaite’s legal support for journalists during military repression.

Ali said he defended many activists and reporters without charging professional fees.

“He fought oppressive decrees and challenged abuse of state power,” he said, adding that Braithwaite’s courage strengthened press freedom in difficult periods.

Dr Omowunmi Braithwaite reflected on her father’s enduring personal legacy. She described him as both a national figure and family inspiration.

She said his values influenced activists, professionals, and younger generations. “This gathering reconnects personal memories with public history,” she said.

Omowunmi thanked organisers and supporters who preserved his works. She said continued documentation would ensure Braithwaite’s legacy remained alive. (NAN)

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