“True Independence Remains Elusive” — Akangbe SAN Urges Nigerians To Reflect, Demand Accountability At 65

Lateef Omoyemi Akangbe, SAN, FCIArb (UK) and former Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Lagos Branch, has called on Nigerians to engage in sober reflection as the country marks 65 years of independence.

In a statement shared on Wednesday, Akangbe emphasized the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers in wresting freedom from colonial rule and praised living nationalist figures who continue to advocate for justice and good governance.

However, Akangbe lamented the state of the nation, noting that corruption, undemocratic practices, and the manipulation of religion and ethnicity have undermined progress. “We cannot speak of true independence while our people remain trapped in poverty, insecurity, and despair,” he said.

He contrasted Nigeria’s trajectory with countries like Singapore and Malaysia, which began their post-independence journeys alongside Nigeria but have since made significant strides. Despite the challenges, Akangbe stressed that the Nigerian dream is not lost, urging citizens to exercise common sense and reject divisive rhetoric and empty promises.

Akangbe also challenged the nation’s leaders to prioritize nation-building over personal ambition while insisting that citizens demand accountability, justice, and visionary leadership. He concluded that only through collective responsibility can independence become more than a symbolic date, but a lived reality for all Nigerians.

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