Anambra-based lawyer, Mr Stanley Okafor, has called for a national “Revolution of Conduct” to address Nigeria’s deepening political, judicial and societal challenges.
Okafor, who is the President of the Leadership Orientation and Basic Rights Advocacy Centre (LOBRAC), made this call during an interview to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary.
Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on Oct. 1, 1960.
Reflecting on the nation’s journey since independence, Okafor expressed concern over the growing distrust in key democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary.
He lamented what he described as the erosion of public confidence in the judiciary, which he said no longer serves as the ‘Last hope of the common man’.
According to him, the rule of law is increasingly being undermined due to a lack of accountability and patriotism.
“It is commendable that Nigeria’s corporate existence has remained intact despite numerous challenges.
“These social, economic and political difficulties are part of nation-building. However, it is unfortunate that many political leaders continue to prioritise personal interests over national interest.
“Nigeria has shifted from a place of hope to one of despair. Yet, I remain optimistic that a better Nigeria is still possible, but only through collective civic responsibility.
“We need a revolution of conduct, not violence, from both the government and the governed.
“We must decide to get it right by shunning vote-buying and vote-selling, voting our conscience and electing leaders who will protect our corporate togetherness regardless of tribe or ethnicity,” he said.
Okafor, also the Executive Director of the League of Igbo Youth Lawyers, further urged President Bola Tinubu to demonstrate true statesmanship by releasing Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as a ‘gesture of friendship and brotherhood’.
