Human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) has called on Nigerians to rise and demand accountability from their leaders, insisting that the country is currently governed by the “rule of rulers” rather than the rule of law.
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Speaking at the 4th Yinka Odumakin Memorial Lecture held in Lagos, Falana challenged citizens to take an active role in governance by questioning how public funds are managed. The event, organized by the Oluyinka Odumakin Foundation, had the theme “Selflessness in Leadership: The Yinka Odumakin Example.”
Falana emphasized the need for Nigerians to hold their government representatives responsible for the implementation of budgets at the local, state, and national levels.
“Nigerians must stop being passive. Demand a copy of your local government budget, ask how constituency funds are being spent. Leaders must be accountable to the people,” he said.
According to him, the responsibility of governance does not end with elections, adding that citizens must follow up on campaign promises and insist on transparency.
Falana also condemned the demolition of homes in Lagos, accusing the government of using different rules for the rich and poor.
“The government is demolishing houses of the poor without due process, but when the rich violate the same laws, they get away with it. Why is this happening?” he questioned.
He urged Nigerians to unite against social injustice, stating that no democracy can thrive where the law is not applied equally.
The event was a tribute to the late Yinka Odumakin, a pro-democracy activist and former spokesperson of Afenifere, who fought relentlessly for justice and good governance.
Various speakers at the event praised Odumakin’s legacy, including:
- Gani Adams, Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, who called on pro-democracy groups to remain steadfast.
- Omoyele Sowore, activist and politician, who described Odumakin as “fearless and uncompromising.”
- Dr. Joe Odumakin, widow of the late activist, who pledged to continue his fight for equality and justice.
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