President Bola Tinubu and other prominent Nigerians have 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 with the theme: “Politics with Conscience: Leadership, Responsibility, and the Nigerian Contract.”
The President was represented by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
Tinubu 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.
He said: “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.”
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.
He urged citizens to draw inspiration from Braithwaite’s dedication to public service.
He said national transformation required integrity, discipline, and collective responsibility.
The 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,” he 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,” he 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.
The Lagos State Governor, 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.
