By Hamilton Nwosa(Head, The New Diplomat’s Polling, Research & Data desk)
Former Lagos State Governor, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, will forever be remembered as one of the greatest political leaders in the history of Nigeria, Deputy Senate President, Ovie Omo-Agege has said.
In a statement by Omo-Agege’s special adviser, Media and publicity, Yomi Odunuga, the senator eulogised the late elder statesman for his exemplary political leadership and 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 Deputy Senate President also prayed God to comfort the late Jakande’s wife, Alhaja Abimbola Sikirat Jakande, their children and his numerous admirers.
