In honor of the Dean, faculty of Law, Prof. Ademola Popoola, the maiden edition of the annual dean's lecture was used to launch the annual law week of the Law Students Society, with the theme -“Exploring the constitutional framework for restructuring Nigeria for sustained economic growth and National Unity.”
This annual public lecture was graced by the presence of prestigious personalities in Nigeria. Among which are the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof. Anthony Elujoba, Emeritus Prof. Dibu Ojerinde, Dean of Student Affairs and a former vice president of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar GCON among others.
The event was opened with the recitation of the national anthem and school anthem. This was followed by the recognition and introduction of guests. The Vice Chancellor of OAU, Prof. Anthony Elujoba gave the opening remark by welcoming everyone and commended the guest of honor for his graceful presence and he also spoke about the great future of OAU. After this was taking of the citation of the Honouree, Prof. Ademola Popoola and former Vice President of Nigeria, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar (GCON).
Afterwards, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, the guest speaker of the event, began his presentation. He spoke on the simple topic, "Restructuring Nigeria's federation". He began with stating the myths surrounding the call for a restructuring. According to him, one of such myths was the fact that 'true federalism' is a myth as all federal systems are works-in-progress and vary from one according to their specific history, socioeconomic and political conditions. He also stated that the current constitution concentrates too much power and resources at the center which has impeded national development, security, peace and stability.
He went on to give reasons why a restructure was necessary, mentioning that the federation should be restructured because it makes the country economically unproductive, indolent, unstable, disunited and politically weak. He regarded the present federation as that of a "unitary federalism". He concluded by mentioning the situation that led to the country's present stage i.e. their over-dependence on oil as a source of revenue and he listed panaceas for a better Nigerian federation.
After he delivered his speech, there was a brief question and answer session that was followed by presentation of awards to honorable and deserving persons - Prof. Sola Eyinderun, Prof. Ademola Popoola, Prof. Anthony Elujoba and His Excellency, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar. Portrait drawings of Prof. Ademola Popoola and Alhaji Atiku Abubakar were presented to them as gifts from the Law Students’ society.
The Faculty of Law Journal was launched and the Guest of Honour launched it with five million naira in cash and this marked the end of the event, this was after an earlier donation of a 25-seater bus to the Faculty.
Photo Credits- Adejumo Kabir
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