Braithwaite Was Moral Voice In Nigeria’s Political Evolution

Lagos State governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed support for plans by the family of the late legal icon and political activist, Dr Tunji Braithwaite, to mark the 10th anniversary of the patriarch’s death, describing him as a moral voice in Nigeria’s political evolution.

He stated this on Monday, when the family paid him a courtesy visit at Lagos House in Marina, ahead of the activities slated for the landmark event.

In a statement by the Organising Committee of the Dr Tunji Braithwaite 10th Year Legacy Commemoration Anniversary, the family said they formally briefed the governor on plans for the commemorative event scheduled for May 2, 2026, at Transcorp Hotel in Abuja.

Led by representatives of the Tunji Braithwaite Foundation, comprising the son, Mr Olumide Braithwaite, who was accompanied by a sister, Dr Omowunmi Braithwaite, the organisers said thhe anniversary, themed “Politics with Conscience: Leadership, Responsibility, and the Nigerian Social Contract,” is designed to reflect on the late statesman’s enduring contributions to democracy, human rights and principled politics in Nigeria.

Speaking during the visit, members of the Tunji Braithwaite family highlighted their patriarch’s legacy as founder of the Nigeria Advance Party, NAP, during the Second Republic and his lifelong advocacy for multi-party democracy, human rights, equity, justice and accountable governance.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, while receiving the delegation, reportedly commended the family for sustaining the towering image, integrity, ideals and intellectual heritage of their father.

He acknowledged Dr Braithwaite’s role as a moral voice in Nigeria’s political evolution and agreed to support the 10th anniversary commemoration as part of his administration’s efforts to preserve democratic values and honour distinguished Lagosians like the late icon, who shaped national discourse.

The governor noted that Lagos State remains proud of its several sons and daughters across the country and in the diaspora who have contributed meaningfully to Nigeria’s socio-economic and democratic journey, adding that conversations around leadership, responsibility and the social contract remain relevant in the present political climate.

The anniversary event, billed to hold at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will feature the launch of a video documentary on Dr Tunji Braithwaite’s life and times, a review of his book, The Jurisprudence of the Living Oracles, and the unveiling of a comprehensive biography chronicling his activism, political philosophy and indomitable essence.

As part of broader consultations, the family disclosed to the Governor Sanwo-Olu plans to visit the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to seek institutional support and partnership for the national dialogue, which is expected to attract legal luminaries, eminent academics, policy makers, civil society actors, professionals, as well as political leaders.

The Tunji Braithwaite Foundation further stated that the anniversary commemoration would not only celebrate the memory of their late patriarch but also rekindle conversations on ethical leadership and citizen-centred governance in Nigeria.