From Priscilla Ediare, Ado-Ekiti
Prominent lawyer and founder of Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti (ABUAD), Aare Afe Babalola (SAN), has reiterated his call for a new constitution, urging Nigerians to support the initiative.
Babalola emphasised that replacing the current constitution would address the economic crises confronting the country, particularly issues of safety and welfare.
The elder statesman renewed his appeal during the 2024 Ekimogun Day celebration in Ondo State, where he was honoured as the “Living Legend of the Year 2024” and inducted into the Ondo Development Committee’s Hall of Fame by the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo. The recognition was in appreciation of his contributions to education, human capital development, law, agriculture, and other sectors.
Babalola, represented at the event by ABUAD’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Smaranda Olarinde, noted, “Nigeria is going through economic crises, particularly in relation to the safety and welfare of the people. Over 90 years ago, there was no hunger, no thieves, life was safe, and people could work on their farms even at night.
“This was because the constitution then acknowledged a direct rule system, which the Colonialists utilised. The Yoruba Kingdoms were well organised under the Obas, and the Independence Constitution of 1960 recognised this through the House of Chiefs. Sadly, this has been abolished.”
He cited a historic example of the Obas’ effectiveness, recalling how the Ewi of Ado-Ekiti mobilised villages to capture armed robbers who attacked a bank in Ado-Ekiti years ago.
Babalola urged the Osemawe, Oba Kiladejo, and other traditional rulers to support the crusade for a new constitution, including reinstating the House of Chiefs and prioritising the remuneration of Obas. “Communal values that encouraged caring for neighbours and giving back to communities must remain the bedrock of our society,” he added.
In his remarks, Oba Kiladejo commended Babalola for his developmental contributions, particularly through ABUAD, which was established in 2009. The monarch noted that one of his children had benefited from the university’s quality education.
He appealed to affluent Nigerians to emulate Babalola’s contributions in fields such as law, education, agriculture, healthcare, and philanthropy.
The event attracted dignitaries, including members of the Bar and the Bench, legal academics, royalty, clergy, captains of industry, and members of the diplomatic community.