Sanwo -Olu, Fayemi Mourn Jakande’s Death

Lagos and Ekiti States Governors, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Kayode Fayemi have mourned the demise of first civilian governor of Lagos, Lateef Jakande who passed away on Thursday at the age of 91.

Sanwon-Olu in his condolence message said the late Jakande will remain one of the best public office holders in the political history of Nigeria based on how he transformed Lagos State and Nigeria during his tenure as Honourable Minister of Works.

The Governor said Alhaji Jakande popularly referred to as ‘Baba Kekere’ brought a lot of development to Lagos State as governor between October 1,1979 and December 31, 1983 in line with the five cardinal programmes of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), founded by the late sage and former Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

Related: Lateef Jakande, First Civilian Governor Of Lagos Dies

The Governor also described the former Minister of Works as an epitome of honesty, dedication and selflessness, who used his elevated positions for the betterment of the people he served.

Governor Sanwo-Olu said the late Alhaji Jakande is one of the few Lagosians and Nigerian leaders that demystified politics by bringing governance closer to the people. 

He said Jakande left with impeccable records in Lagos State and that is why he remains till date, a reference point for governors in Lagos and other parts of the country.

He said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I want to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and associates of the late Alhaji Lateef Jakande as well as members of the progressive community.

In his own message, Kayode Fayemi described Alhaji Jakande as a selfless leader, statesman and a role model who utilized public service effectively for the development of the people.

While noting that the deceased made his mark in the media before venturing into politics, Fayemi said the ” Action Governor” excelled as a reporter, editor, Publisher and administrator, adding that his public service record was untainted.

According to him, the late statesman used his profession as a journalist to fight colonialism to a standstill paving the way for the independence achieved on 1st October, 1960.

“We are not mourning. We are celebrating a life well spent in the service of humanity. Our consolation and that of the children and entire family is that baba lived well and earned a good name. He will continue to live in the hearts of the people. May Allah grant him Aljannah Firdaus.” He added.