By Hungah Peter (SIWES student, Federal Polytechnic Ilaro)
During his convocation lecture at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, shared a startling anecdote.
He revealed a close call with former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who almost came to blows with him for proposing the amendment of the 1999 Constitution during Obasanjo’s presidency.
Olanipekun criticized the 1999 Constitution as fraudulent, attributing it to the myriad challenges facing Nigeria.
He emphasized the urgent need for a more humane constitution, lamenting the current state of affairs where governors frequent Abuja to meet with bureaucrats rather than exercising true federalism.
Despite advocating for constitutional reform, Olanipekun acknowledged the legal obligation of lawyers and judges to adhere to existing laws.
He recounted a confrontation with Obasanjo in 2022, where the former president vehemently opposed constitutional changes.
Expressing grave concerns over escalating violence against traditional rulers in Yorubaland, Olanipekun underscored the chilling effect such incidents have on Nigerians abroad contemplating returning home.
Furthermore, he highlighted rampant unemployment, economic hardships, and societal indifference as exacerbating factors contributing to Nigeria’s precarious state.
Olanipekun called for a robust system that provides employment opportunities for graduates and ensures a supportive environment for all citizens.
