Akinwunmi Ambode, governor of Lagos state, on Thursday said at some point in his life, he “never thought he would ever” end up a politician.
Speaking at the burial service held in honour of Tunji Braithwaite, a prominent lawyer, politician and activist, at Reverend Braithwaite Memorial Anglican Church, Epe, Ambode said the deceased inspired him to work and serve the masses.
He said he had always been fascinated about the late lawyer’s disposition towards the people of Nigeria.
The governor said that the late nationalist fought for good causes and for Nigerians throughout his lifetime.
“I never thought I would ever be a politician but I have always been excited about the things Dr Braithwaite used to propagate and it appears that I have a personal connection around the issues that relate to people,” he said.
“That is why we decided, on behalf of the good people of Lagos, that we must honour this very good man and to also immortalise him.
“He must be remembered in a way that people can come to understand those who actually stood for true democracy and also fought for the masses but they never had the opportunity to do what it is that I have a chance to replicate.”
Ambode said Braithwaite was consistent and persistent in the fight for a better society for all Nigerians.
He also recalled how the late activist started the campaign for positive change and egalitarian society long before the advent of the current administration, which is known for its change mantra.
“I just want to encourage the family because we are celebrating and we know that those yet unborn will read about what Dr Braithwaite actually stood for,” he said.
“He was a foremost lawyer, a statesman and an activist. He spent all his life fighting good causes, especially for the common man.
“He fought for what he believed in and he had strong conviction to be the voice of the voiceless and whatever it is that we are advocating as change today has actually been manifested from all the things he had preached about.”
In his sermon, Adebola Ademowo, bishop of Lagos Anglican diocese, said Braithwaite led an impactful life following the testimonies of people.
Ademowo said Braithwaite never buried his talent but used it to fight against corruption, injustice and a system promoting mediocrity and criminal wealth.
“Nigeria is a complex country with myriads of bad users of talents. We need to continually pray for a national rebirth of the country,” he said.
“It must start with a personal examination of our lives and imbibing of virtues of selflessness, honesty, integrity, among others.”
Ben Obi, a former special adviser to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan on political matters, described Braithwaite as “a light that feared no darkness”.
Oluleye, one of the sons of the deceased, also described his father as a mentor and democrat who would be greatly missed by the family and the nation at large.
Braithwaite died in Lagos on March 28, aged 82.
