Former NBA President Wole Olanipekun Reveals Tense Encounter with Ex-President Obasanjo Over Constitution Amendment

Wole Olanipekun Criticizes 1999 Constitution as “Fake”

In a candid revelation during the 32nd and 33rd convocation lecture at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), former President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Wole Olanipekun, SAN, did not mince his words as he criticized the 1999 constitution as “fake” and inadequate to address the multifaceted challenges facing the nation. Olanipekun, renowned for his legal acumen, called for a constitutional overhaul, emphasizing the need for a document with a “humane face.”

As he addressed the audience, Wole Olanipekun expressed the paradox faced by lawyers and judges who, despite recognizing the flaws in the constitution, continue to apply it as it stands. He highlighted the urgency of amending the constitution, urging for a collective effort to bring about necessary changes. This bold stance adds momentum to the ongoing discourse surrounding constitutional reforms in Nigeria, a topic that has gained increased attention in recent years.

Wole Olanipekun Reveals Obasanjo’s Hostility Over Constitutional Amendment

Adding an intriguing layer to his lecture, Wole Olanipekun disclosed a tense encounter with ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo during his administration. The former NBA president narrated how he advised Obasanjo to amend the constitution, only to face a near-physical confrontation. This revelation provides a unique insight into the challenges and resistance encountered by advocates of constitutional reform, even from prominent figures within the political landscape.

Wole Olanipekun’s account sheds light on the complexities surrounding attempts to initiate constitutional changes, raising questions about the resistance faced by those advocating for a more adaptive legal framework. This revelation serves as a reminder of the intricate dynamics within Nigeria’s political and legal spheres, where even well-intentioned advice can be met with resistance from influential figures. As the call for constitutional reform gains momentum, Olanipekun’s personal encounter with Obasanjo adds a compelling dimension to the ongoing discourse on the nation’s legal foundations.

Ex- NBA President’s Encounter with Former President Obasanjo: A Flashback to 2002

In a surprising revelation, Wole Olanipekun, the current President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), took a trip down memory lane, recounting a memorable encounter with former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2002. Olanipekun, who led a delegation of the association to meet the then-president, shared a vivid anecdote, stating, “he almost boxed me.” The details surrounding this intriguing encounter remain shrouded in mystery, raising questions about the dynamics between the NBA and the political leadership at that time.

This unprecedented revelation adds a unique perspective to the historical interactions between legal bodies and political figures, shedding light on the challenges faced by leaders within the NBA. As Nigerians reflect on the past, this revelation sparks a conversation about the complex relationships between legal professionals and political authorities, offering insights into the delicate balance required to navigate such interactions.

Wole Olanipekun ex NBA President Urges President Tinubu to Prioritize Restructuring for the Sake of Future Generations

In a recent address in Ogun State, Wole Olanipekun, the NBA President, issued a passionate appeal to the current Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Advocating for the immediate restructuring of the country, Wole Olanipekun emphasized the urgency of the situation. He warned that if timely action is not taken, the future of Nigeria could be jeopardized, with the potential consequence of the younger generation abroad choosing not to return home.

Describing previous constitutional amendments as “charades and window dressing,” Wole Olanipekun called for a genuine restructuring that addresses the root issues facing the nation. This plea comes at a critical juncture in Nigeria’s history, with the nation grappling with various challenges. Olanipekun’s appeal not only highlights the importance of addressing structural issues but also underscores the responsibility placed on the current leadership to secure a prosperous future for the upcoming generations. As the call for restructuring gains momentum, Nigerians await the response of President Tinubu and the actions that will shape the country’s trajectory.