Senate President, Dr. Ahmad Lawan, and his deputy, Ovie Omo-Agege, have expressed grief over the death of first civilian governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande,, saying Nigeria has lost one of its exemplary political leaders and administrators with his demise.
Lawan, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Ola Awoniyi, said the deceased lived a long and inspirational life that found fulfilment in the service of humanity.
He noted Jakande made sterling contributions to the development of journalism in Nigeria before replicating his indelible footprints on the political and economic development of Nigeria with his landmark achievements as the first elected governor of Lagos State.
“His feats and carriage as governor made Alhaji Lateef Jakande a permanent face of progressive politics which primary concern is the welfare and well-being of the people.
“Throughout his tenure as governor, he faithfully implemented the four cardinal programmes of his party, the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria.
“His numerous legacies continue to be appreciated, particularly in the education, health and housing sectors of Lagos State,” Lawan stated.
Also reacting, Omo-Agege said Jakande will forever be remembered as one of the greatest political leaders in the history of Nigeria.
The deputy senate president, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yomi Odunuga, eulogised the elder statesman for his exemplary political leadership as well as his sterling personal qualities out of office.
“Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, a thorough journalist and exemplary politician left a bold imprint with accelerated populist and futuristic projects across Lagos State which he governed from 1979 to 1983.
“Later, as Minister of Works between 1993 and 1998, he dynamically strove to impact lives across the Federation.
“From being the literary editor of a secondary school publication, LKJ rose to become a great editor whose editorials were factual and forthright, and were treated with due respect by the colonial powers.
“Through a mix of journalism and entrepreneurship which should further inspire young journalists today, he left Tribune newspapers in 1975 to establish John West Publications and The Lagos News.
“Notably, he became the pioneer President of the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN).
“In addition to all these, Alhaji Jakande was a very loyal lieutenant of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a trusted leader, a true achiever in all sense of the word and a great family man whose personal life was a lesson in moderation,” Omo-Agege stated.
