The Deputy Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Barrister Abdulraheem Adebayo Lawal, has called for stronger democratic institutions, accountable leadership and sustainable governance reforms, stressing that the democratic future of Nigeria depends on building resilient institutions rather than relying on powerful individuals.

He made this call while delivering the First University of Ibadan Independence Hall Alumni Personality Lecture titled: "Twenty-Seven Years of Democracy in Nigeria: Any Lessons Learned in Leadership and Governance?"

Barrister Lawal noted that although Nigeria has sustained its longest uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999, the country continues to grapple with challenges of leadership, weak institutions, poor policy implementation and declining public trust in democratic institutions.

He observed that political parties have gradually shifted from ideologically driven platforms to vehicles for political contestation and elite negotiations, while increasing political defections have weakened internal party democracy and reduced public confidence in the political process.

He also expressed concern over the growing judicialization of politics, warning that excessive judicial intervention in political disputes could erode the credibility of the judiciary and undermine democratic governance.

The Deputy Governor asserted that the greatest lesson from Nigeria's democratic journey is that leadership must be rooted in service rather than in the pursuit of power.

According to him, while power may secure political office, only moral authority, integrity and selfless service can earn the trust and confidence of the people.

He emphasized that democracy must translate into tangible benefits for citizens through improved security, quality education, accessible healthcare, infrastructure development and economic opportunities.

The personality lecturer advocated continuous electoral reforms, stronger institutional independence, effective implementation of public policies, increased citizen participation and greater accountability at all levels of government.

He urged political leaders to prioritize national interest above sectional interests and called on citizens to remain actively engaged in the democratic process by demanding accountability from elected leaders and participating meaningfully in governance.

The Deputy Governor also called for stronger and more independent institutions, sustained electoral reforms, restoration of internal democracy within political parties, increased citizen participation in governance, and constitutional reforms capable of strengthening democratic accountability.

Barrister Lawal reflected on his days as a student in Independence Hall, describing the Hall as a place that shaped his leadership values and commitment to public service.

The Vice-Chancellor, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, expressed delight that Independence Hall has continued to produce distinguished alumni who are making significant contributions to national development.

He noted that the identity and values of the University of Ibadan remain with its graduates long after they leave the institution, adding that the University has continued to produce intellectually sound leaders capable of providing solutions to societal challenges.

Professor Adebowale described the theme of the lecture as timely and relevant to Nigeria's democratic development, stressing that democracy remains a continuous process that requires constant evaluation, adherence to the rule of law and deliberate efforts to strengthen institutions and bridge governance gaps.

The Vice-Chancellor commended the Deputy Governor for returning to his alma mater to share his wealth of experience with the University community, noting that the lessons from the lecture should not merely be viewed as reflections on the past but as guideposts for building a stronger democratic future.

In his welcome address, the Dean of Students, Professor Demola Lewis, described the occasion as a historic milestone for Independence Hall, stating that the lecture marked the beginning of what would become a lasting tradition of celebrating distinguished alumni and inspiring future generations of students.

He described Barrister Lawal as an illustrious alumnus whose journey from the corridors of Independence Hall to the office of the Deputy Governor of Oyo State exemplifies scholarship, integrity, humility and selfless service.

Professor Lewis stated that the First Independence Hall Alumni Personality Lecture would also provide an opportunity for alumni and friends of the Hall to reconnect with their alma mater and contribute towards the continued development of the infrastructure of the hall, student welfare and academic environment.