The descendants of Herbert Heelas Macaulay, widely recognized as the Father of Nigerian Nationalism, have expressed mixed feelings regarding President Bola Tinubu‘s recent posthumous pardon of the revered patriot. While they appreciate the gesture, they strongly criticized the approach, labeling it as disrespectful to Macaulay’s enduring legacy.
During a press briefing held in Lagos on Thursday, led by Olabode George, former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Atona Oodua of Yorubaland, the family voiced their disapproval of Macaulay being grouped alongside “drug traffickers and various criminals” within a broad amnesty list.
Related: ADC, Atiku criticize Tinubu’s pardon of drug offenders and others
The family emphasized that if the government truly intends to honor the founding figure of Nigerian nationalism, such recognition should be executed separately and with due reverence.
“Macaulay stood against tyranny and inspired us to claim our freedom,” George remarked.
Both George and the Macaulay family urged the federal authorities to commemorate the nationalist by dedicating a prominent national landmark or institution in his name, celebrating him as “the visionary who ignited the flame of Nigeria’s independence.”
“Herbert Macaulay’s name deserves to be remembered distinctly-not alongside lawbreakers, but among the nation’s architects,” George concluded.
Other family members present at the event included Erelu Adeola Macaulay, Lanre Oshodi, Mayokun Thomas, Kofoworola Macaulay, Adeyinka Macaulay, Ayo Ogunlana, and Turi Akerele.
George further reflected, “Although Herbert Macaulay did not live to witness Nigeria’s independence, he paved the way for it. We, as beneficiaries of his sacrifices, have a responsibility to advance freedom beyond politics into realms like economic empowerment, education, and social equity.”
“His vision was of a Nigeria where every individual, irrespective of ethnicity, religion, or social standing, could hold their head high with pride. He imagined a government that serves its people rather than rules over them.”
“In confronting today’s challenges-such as insecurity, inequality, and corruption-we must draw inspiration from his legacy. Our focus should be on uniting communities, building strong institutions, and fostering collective progress rather than division or personal gain.”
Also read: Farouk Lawan commends Tinubu’s presidential pardon, expressing renewed optimism
“Do not allow skepticism to diminish your resolve. Macaulay fought without wealth or weapons, armed solely with unwavering belief. Today, you possess tools he never imagined: education, technology, and connectivity. Harness these not to deepen divides or despair, but to drive meaningful transformation.”