Femi Falana Urges Nigerians to Rise Against Oppression at Tribute to Dr. Adewale Balogun
At a moving Day of Tributes event honoring the late Dr. Adewale Peter Balogun, human rights lawyer Femi Falana urged Nigerians to come together, unite, and recommit themselves to the fight for their rights. Describing Dr. Balogun as a hero of Nigerian democracy and a passionate advocate for the oppressed, Falana emphasized that now is not a time for mourning, but a time to take action against the forces of oppression.
“We must rededicate ourselves and live our lives so that we can be freed from oppression,” Falana said, calling out the increasing telecom tariffs as a warning sign of what’s to come. “The guys in power have not started; we have not seen anything. This is why we must rise up, unite, and say no to oppression,” he declared.
Echoing these sentiments, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, challenged Nigerians to continue the struggle for good governance, especially in light of the ongoing economic challenges facing the country. Arogundade called for leaders to prioritize service to the nation, make sacrifices, and remain steadfast in their commitment to transformation.
“You can make an impact without making noise,” Arogundade remarked, underscoring the importance of quiet yet effective contributions to societal progress. He praised Dr. Balogun for his quiet yet impactful life, noting that his struggles—particularly those of medical doctors in the 1980s and his role in the fight for democracy—were instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.
Arogundade also highlighted that while some of Dr. Balogun’s dreams were unfulfilled, his legacy lives on. “This event is to remind us of where we are and to challenge us to fight for good governance,” he said. “The best way to immortalize Dr. Balogun is by continuing the struggle for a better, more democratic Nigeria.”
The tribute served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing fight for democracy, urging Nigerians to take action and contribute to the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society.
