South-South Leaders in Lagos have joined other Lagosians in pouring encomiums on the late icon, Alhaji Lateef JAKANDE.
In a release signed by Dr. Paul Fregene, Secretary to Ejigbo LCDA, the group expressed its gratitude to the former Lagos State Governor and astute politician for his sterling heights as the state’s ex-helmsman. In the tribute to JAKANDE signed by Fregene, the legend was hailed for all the opportunities he gave to people from all walks of life, especially the less privileged. Below is the text of Fregene’s statement:
TRIBUTE TO ALHAJI LATEEF JAKANDE
“Today, I write a tribute on the landmark achievement of the first civilian governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande.
“When education was a luxury for the poor, LKJ was a saviour to them.
“In 1979, when my single-parent mother could not afford my education beyond elementary level, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande emerged the governor of Lagos State on the ticket of the Unity Party of Nigeria and one of the cardinal manifestos of the party was free education, so I became one of the early beneficiaries.
“Today, I am not only a Post Primary School leaver, but a proud holder of the first and second degrees.
“Late LKJ’s legacies are beyond the four walls of the classroom. They are capacity building for the future.
“I had the privilege of sharing this testimony before him at his Ilupeju residence during the 13th anniversary of ‘The Jakande Progressive Movement’ in 2017.
“Today, many are landlords because LKJ led a government for the underprivileged.
“Housing policy was affordable through mortgages.
“His contribution to journalism was outstanding.
“On behalf of the Apex leader, Engr. Sam Egube, State and Deputy State Chairman and entire leadership of the South-South People’s United Forum, Lagos State, we commiserate with the widow, children and extended family members, the governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and the entire good people of Lagos on the demise of this nonagenarian icon, loyal and progressive ‘Awoist’ and above all, a leader who knew when to leave the stage.
Adieu Baba Kekere.”
