By Muhammad Mamman
Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has raised alarm over the growing takeover of Nigeria’s political space by criminals and touts, warning that governance is slipping further away from integrity and public service.
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Speaking at the 2025 National Conference of Egbe Amofin Oodua in Abeokuta, themed “Regional Justice, Security and Sustainable Development”, Falana criticised South-West governors for prioritising personal interests over the needs of citizens.
“Politics has moved from intellectual leadership to the hands of criminals who care little about development,” Falana declared.
He slammed Oyo State’s proposed ₦63 billion renovation of its Government House, calling it reckless at a time when basic infrastructure and education are in crisis. He also criticised Lagos lawmakers for planning to spend another ₦20 billion on vehicles after a ₦45 billion purchase in recent years.
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Falana decried the rise of street touts across the region, noting that lawlessness, poverty, and lack of access to education are eroding the social fabric.
“Our roads are collapsing, children are out of school, and yet our leaders are throwing public funds at vanity projects,” he said.
He urged legal professionals to hold elected officials accountable, particularly over the ₦6.9 trillion worth of constituency projects inserted into the 2025 budget.
“Ask where these projects are. If answers aren’t given, take them to court,” he challenged.
Former Attorney General, Chief Akin Olujinmi, SAN, in his keynote, called on lawyers to uphold the rule of law and push for justice, fairness, and transparency across the South-West.
