Olanipekun urges Yoruba nation to prepare politically and economically beyond Tinubu, highlighting unity and strategic leadership for the region’s future

Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, has called on the Yoruba nation to initiate deliberate political and economic planning beyond the tenure of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

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Olanipekun made the appeal yesterday in Akure, Ondo State, during a public lecture titled “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow” at the International Culture and Events Centre, marking the state’s 50th anniversary.

The eminent lawyer warned that the Southwest cannot afford complacency while power remains at the centre.

He noted that although President Tinubu may serve until 2031, the region must prepare for political developments beyond his presidency.

“I’m not just asking us to prepare for post-2031 because President Tinubu will not be there forever. He will be there till 2031. So, we should be prepared for post-2031,” Olanipekun stated.

Olanipekun further highlighted the threat of internal divisions, urging political leaders, traditional rulers, and stakeholders to strengthen cohesion, unity, and mutual respect to safeguard the region’s influence in national politics.

He described development in the Southwest as a collective responsibility requiring courage, strategic thinking, and engagement beyond partisan interests.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who hosted the lecture, emphasised his administration’s focus on consolidating existing institutions and driving long-term growth through reforms in health, education, and security.

The governor highlighted plans to enhance the state security outfit, Amotekun Corps, and implement a proposed state policing framework.

“Amotekun has come to stay. We will make it work better, recruit more personnel and equip them. With state policing in view, it will be able to handle sophisticated weapons against bandits and marauders,” Aiyedatiwa said.

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The governor also outlined initiatives to boost industrialisation, agriculture, and the blue economy, including value addition to cocoa through processing plants aimed at generating revenue and creating jobs for residents.