, has called on Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable, decrying the ongoing rule of law){kind=link}
Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable, decrying the ongoing “rule of rulers” in the country instead of adhering to the rule of law.
Falana made the remarks at the 4th Anniversary of the late Yinka Odumakin Lecture, organized by the Oluyinka Odumakin Foundation, in Lagos on Wednesday.
The event, themed Selflessness in Leadership: The Yinka Odumakin Example, highlighted the late Odumakin’s unwavering commitment to democracy and justice.
Falana emphasized that it is crucial for Nigerians to demand transparency from their leaders.
He urged the public to start asking difficult questions and ensure proper accountability in governance, especially when it comes to the use of public funds.
“Nigerians should demand a copy of their local government’s budget and ensure that senators and members of the House of Representatives are held responsible for their constituency budgets,” Falana said.
He also stressed the importance of ensuring that budgets are properly implemented, urging citizens to hold their leaders accountable for the welfare of the people.
He criticized the current political system, pointing out that the “rule of rulers” undermines the foundational principle that the law should apply equally to everyone.
“The rule of law means that everyone is accountable, regardless of their status,” he added.
Falana also called out the Lagos State government for allegedly demolishing homes of the poor without proper authorization, while allowing the rich, including those in upscale areas like Banana Island, to bypass similar regulations.
“The government is demolishing houses of the poor but ratifying laws that protect the rich,” he said.
Echoing the need for solidarity, Falana remarked, “Injustice to one is injustice to all,” and encouraged Nigerians to support each other in the fight for a more just society.
He underscored that demanding accountability from the government is a fitting tribute to Yinka Odumakin’s legacy as a steadfast advocate for democracy.
Also speaking at the event, Gani Adams, the factional leader of the outlawed Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), urged pro-democracy activists to continue the fight for democracy without compromising their principles.
He emphasized the need to focus on reshaping and sustaining democracy in Nigeria.
Omowole Sowore, the African Action Congress (AAC) 2023 presidential candidate, described Yinka Odumakin as a courageous and fearless activist, always speaking the truth regardless of opposition.
Dr. Joe Odumakin, the president of Women Arise for Change Initiative and widow of the late Yinka Odumakin, emphasized the importance of equality and justice for all citizens, reaffirming the need to uphold the rule of law.
The event was attended by several notable figures, including Jimi Agbaje, former Lagos State governorship candidate, activist Olamide Fusika (SAN), veteran journalist Richard Akinnola, and journalist Edmond Obilo.