Abuja: President Bola Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to the late Dr Olatunji Braithwaite, describing him as a towering patriot.
He said Braithwaite’s contributions to Nigeria’s development would inspire generations yet unborn.
On Saturday in Abuja, Tinubu spoke during the 10th memorial lecture held in honour of Braithwaite.
The lecture was under the theme: ‘Politics with Conscience: Leadership, Responsibility, and the Nigerian Contract’.
The President, who was represented by Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, underscored Braithwaite’s life as a symbol of courage, discipline, and unwavering commitment to justice.
The President said Braithwaite’s life reflected courage, discipline, and commitment to justice.
He described Braithwaite as a fearless advocate for accountability and democratic values.
“His contributions shaped our collective consciousness, strengthening 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.
He stated that, if alive today, Braithwaite would support efforts to build a fairer nation.
The President said that Braithwaite deeply believed 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.
Building on this, he said national transformation required integrity, discipline, and collective responsibility.
Turning to other tributes, Chairman of the occasion, Chief Bisi Akande, praised Braithwaite’s exceptional moral courage.
Akande described Braithwaite as both a custodian of conscience and a defender of democratic principles.
“This gathering is not merely for remembrance, but for reflection and renewal,” Akande said.
He explained that Braithwaite rejected comfort whenever truth or justice was at risk, noting, “He stood with ordinary Nigerians not only in words, but through action.”
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 human potential. “What Nigeria needs is leadership that stays consistent under pressure,” he said.
In Lagos, 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.
Although his dream may remain unfinished, the governor said, it is certainly not unreachable; Braithwaite’s life, he added, offers direction for future generations.
He encouraged attendees to uphold Braithwaite’s example of service, courage, and justice as guiding principles for the future.ayed.
Similarly, the 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 journalists valued Braithwaite’s boldness and intellectual depth.
Ali noted that Braithwaite’s public interventions often shaped national political conversations, making him a dependable defender of truth and justice in reporters’ eyes.
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, Ali added, noting Braithwaite’s courage strengthened press freedom in difficult periods.
Reflecting personally, Dr Omowunmi Braithwaite highlighted her father’s enduring legacy. She described him as both a national figure and family inspiration.
She said his values influenced activists, professionals, and youth. “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.