The Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege has said that former Lagos State Governor, late Lateef Jakande will forever be remembered as one of the greatest political leaders in the history of Nigeria.
Senator Omo-Agege in a statement on Thursday, 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,” Senator Omo-Agege stated.
The Delta born Senator also prayed God to comfort Alhaji Jakande’s wife, Alhaja Abimbola Sikirat Jakande, their children and the former governor’s ardent admirers.
