Tinubu, Sanwo-Olu, Aiyedatiwa to Headline Braithwaite 10th Memorial in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to lead a gathering of top political figures and legal minds at the 10th anniversary memorial of Dr. Olatunji Akintunde Braithwaite, the late lawyer and democracy advocate who died in 2016.

The event holds on May 2, 2026, from noon to 5:00 p.m. at the Transcorp Hilton Conference Hall in Abuja. Attendance is by invitation only.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has confirmed he will attend, following a courtesy visit by Barrister Olumide Braithwaite and members of the memorial planning committee. Lagos State Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, former Osun State Governor Bisi Akande, and Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka are also on the guest list. Benedict Hope Uzoma Obi will serve as Special Guest of Honour.

Biography launch headlines the programme

The big moment of the memorial will be the launch of a comprehensive biography on Dr. Braithwaite’s life, career, and influence on Nigeria’s legal and democratic development. The book digs into his contributions to constitutional law, civil rights advocacy, and the country’s democratic journey.

Barrister Olumide Braithwaite, speaking ahead of the event, said the gathering is meant as a moment of reflection on the values his father stood for.

“This memorial offers an opportunity for both the legal community and the nation at large to reflect on the enduring ideals that Dr. Braithwaite championed throughout his life,” he said, naming justice, democracy, integrity, and principled leadership.

Who was Dr. Tunji Braithwaite?

Dr. Olatunji Akintunde Braithwaite was one of Nigeria’s most vocal legal minds. He built a reputation for fearless advocacy and sharp intellect, pushing for democratic governance and the rule of law even during the military era. His influence went well beyond the courtroom into national politics and civil rights activism. Ten years after his passing, his name still carries real weight in legal and political circles.

Sources: P.M. News, Independent Newspaper Nigeria