Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), has called on the Yoruba nation to look beyond the present political moment and begin intentional preparations for sustained relevance after the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the senior advocate cautioned against what he described as political complacency in the Southwest, warning that power at the centre is transient and cannot be taken for granted.
According to him, the presidency will not remain in the region indefinitely, making long-term planning both necessary and urgent. Olanipekun made the remarks on Tuesday at a public lecture entitled “Ondo State: Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow,” held at the International Culture and Events Centre, popularly known as The Dome. The lecture formed part of activities marking the 50th anniversary of the creation of Ondo State. While acknowledging that President Tinubu could remain in office until 2031, the former NBA president stressed that the Yoruba nation must already be positioning itself for political, economic and leadership realities beyond that period.
He emphasised that unity, strategic thinking and purposeful leadership would be critical in safeguarding the future of Yorubaland. He urged leaders and stakeholders across the Southwest to use the current window of influence to strengthen institutions, build economic capacity and nurture future leaders who can effectively represent the region’s interests in national affairs.
According to Olanipekun, only deliberate and forward-looking action will ensure that the Yoruba nation maintains its voice and relevance in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape long after the present administration.
