By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA, Nigeria (PRECISE POST) – President Bola Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to the late Alhaji Kola Oseni, describing him as a visionary administrator, elder statesman, progressive politician and one of the foremost champions of democracy whose contributions to Lagos State and Nigeria will remain indelible.
In a heartfelt condolence message issued on Friday following Oseni’s death, President Tinubu said he received the news of the passing of his longtime political associate with “a heavy heart and deep sadness,” noting that although the late statesman was gone, his legacy and the memories they shared would endure.
The President said Oseni distinguished himself through exemplary leadership, vision and commitment to public service, adding that he was relentless in his pursuit of policies and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.
Tinubu recalled that Oseni played a pivotal role as the organising secretary of Unity Party of Nigeria in Lagos during the Second Republic under the leadership of Obafemi Awolowo. According to him, Oseni’s contributions laid the foundation for key institutions, including the Lagos State Printing Corporation, where a central mosque was recently dedicated in his honour.
Reflecting on their longstanding relationship, the President described the late politician as more than a political associate.
“To me, however, he was much more than that. He was a leader, my ally, my comrade, a friend and a brother rolled into one,” Tinubu said.
The President disclosed that Oseni introduced him to politics and remained steadfast in supporting his political journey, which eventually led to his emergence as Senator representing Lagos West and later Governor of Lagos State.
Tinubu said the pair shared memorable moments and made enormous sacrifices during Nigeria’s struggle to restore democratic rule.
Describing Oseni as “a warrior for democracy,” the President said the late statesman firmly believed in democratic ideals and good governance, dedicating his life to defending those principles.
He recalled that they jointly participated in the struggle to protect the mandate of the 1993 Nigerian presidential election won by the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, while also working alongside other pro-democracy activists to end military rule in Nigeria.
Tinubu also revealed that Oseni supported his presidential ambition in 2022 by offering prayers and blessings, although his active involvement was limited because he had relocated to the United States.
The President noted that his administration is implementing some of the ideas and reforms they discussed over the years, expressing his determination to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.
Paying his final respects, Tinubu thanked the late statesman for his years of dedicated service to Lagos State and the nation.
“Indeed, a brother and a bosom friend has fallen. An Iroko among us has fallen,” the President said.
He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting Oseni a long, impactful life and prayed for divine comfort for his family, especially his wife and children, urging them to find strength in continuing the values and service he embodied.
“As Kola Oseni’s remains are laid to rest, Remi and I wish him eternal rest. May Almighty Allah grant him the best part of Aljanna,” the President prayed.
