By Ghazali Ibrahim
The Vice-Chancellor of Lagos State University (LASU), Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, has congratulated Professor Odion Akhaine on his conferment of the prestigious Hero of Democracy Award by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during the June 12 Democracy Day celebration.
In a statement issued on behalf of the university, Olatunji-Bello described the honour as a fitting recognition of Akhaine’s decades-long contributions to the struggle for democracy, human rights, and constitutional governance in Nigeria.
Akhaine, a Professor of Political Science in LASU’s Faculty of Social Sciences, is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading pro-democracy activists.
He played key roles in the fight against military rule, serving as General Secretary of the Campaign for Democracy (CD) and later as Joint Secretary and General Secretary of the United Action for Democracy (UAD).
The university noted that Akhaine’s commitment to democratic ideals came at a personal cost. Between 1995 and 1996, he was illegally detained and held in solitary confinement under the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha. Amnesty International subsequently designated him a Prisoner of Conscience in 1995.
According to the statement, Akhaine has continued to champion democracy, constitutionalism, and human rights, earning both national and international recognition for his efforts. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Centre for Constitutionalism and Demilitarisation and sits on the governing boards of several institutions and non-governmental organisations.
Olatunji-Bello said the national honour reflects Akhaine’s patriotism, resilience, integrity, and unwavering commitment to nation-building.
“The conferment of the Hero of Democracy Award is a fitting recognition of Professor Akhaine’s enduring legacy and invaluable contributions to the enthronement and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria,” she said.
The Vice-Chancellor added that the award underscores the values of courage, sacrifice, and dedication that Akhaine has consistently demonstrated throughout his distinguished career.
The LASU community celebrated the recognition and wished the professor continued good health and greater accomplishments in service to the nation and humanity.
