Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has emphasized the urgent need for Nigeria to address the pervasive issue of corruption in order to advance and achieve meaningful progress. Speaking at the memorial service for Justice Olayinka Ayoola (retd.), the former Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), held at the Methodist Church Nigeria in Ibadan, Oyo State, Obasanjo characterized corruption as a “great monster” that continues to afflict the nation. He acknowledged the efforts of the ICPC and Ayoola but noted that the fight against corruption remains an uphill battle, hindered by the deep-rooted nature of this societal problem. His comments underline the continuous struggle against corruption and the critical need for collective action among Nigerians to eradicate it.
Justice Ayoola, who passed away on August 20, 2024, at the age of 90, was celebrated during the event not only for his contributions to the fight against corruption but also for his broader contributions to Nigeria and Africa. Obasanjo reflected on Ayoola’s legacy, highlighting his character as a “great man, great Nigerian, great African, and man of the world.” The former president expressed gratitude for Ayoola’s life and the impact he had during his time, indicating a broader theme of honoring individuals who strive for justice and integrity amidst challenging circumstances. This acknowledgment serves as a reminder of the value of principled leadership in the face of adversity.
Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, the Chief Judge of Nigeria, also paid tribute to Ayoola, urging those present to reflect on their own roles in society. She emphasized the importance of leaving a positive legacy and being remembered for one’s contributions. Kekere-Ekun praised Ayoola for leaving “indelible footprints in the sand of time,” suggesting that his work has had a lasting impact on Nigeria’s reputation. She called for collective responsibility, encouraging attendees to consider their actions and their significance in the broader narrative of Nigeria’s journey toward ethical governance and accountability.
In a thought-provoking sermon titled “Serving God’s Purpose In Our Generation,” Revd Simeon Onaleke, the Bishop of the Diocese of Agodi, underscored the importance of making meaningful contributions that would ensure one is remembered positively. He suggested that legislation should be enacted to prevent corrupt politicians from seeking re-election, thereby promoting a more accountable and integrity-driven leadership atmosphere in Nigeria. Onaleke’s statement aligns with the sentiments expressed by Obasanjo and Kekere-Ekun about the pervasive nature of corruption and the need for systemic changes within the political landscape to foster transparency and accountability.
The collaborative reflections from Obasanjo, Kekere-Ekun, and Onaleke during this memorial reflect a shared commitment to eradicating corruption and promoting ethical governance. They collectively called on Nigerians to take ownership of the fight against corruption, emphasizing that overcoming this “great cancer” requires collective resolve and action. The gravity of their messages resonates, suggesting that merely appointing individuals to key positions is insufficient without a strong, united front from all segments of society.
Ultimately, the service honored the life and achievements of Justice Olayinka Ayoola while advocating for a deeper dialogue about Nigeria’s struggle with corruption. It highlighted the need for sustained efforts to combat this issue and the importance of acknowledging those who have contributed to the fight. As Nigeria continues its journey, the legacies of leaders like Ayoola serve as both inspiration and a call to action for future generations. The event not only celebrated an individual’s contributions but also urged collective reflection and a commitment to fostering a more ethical and just society in Nigeria.
