I’m Implementing Some Of The Ideas We Discussed – Tinubu Mourns Death Of Kola Oseni

President Bola Tinubu has expressed grief over the death of elder statesman and politician, Alhaji Kola Oseni, describing him as a visionary administrator, democracy activist and one of the figures who shaped his political journey.

In a personally signed tribute released on Friday by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said Oseni’s death was a personal loss, noting that the late politician remained a loyal ally, friend and brother throughout his political career.

“It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that I received the news of Alhaji Kola Oseni’s passing. Though he is no longer with us, the memories of the time we shared and the legacy he left will endure,” Tinubu said.

He described Oseni as “a visionary administrator, an elder statesman, a progressive politician, and a trailblazer,” adding that his “inspiring leadership, vision and industry stood him apart.”

The President recounted Oseni’s contributions to Lagos State, saying his role as organising secretary of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Unity Party of Nigeria in Lagos during the Second Republic helped lay the foundation for the establishment of the Lagos State Printing Corporation, where a central mosque was recently dedicated in his honour.

Naija News reports that Tinubu also reflected on their long political relationship, saying Oseni introduced him to politics and stood firmly behind him throughout his public service career.

“He brought me into politics and stood by me along with others to become the Senator representing Lagos West and later the governor of our Lagos State.

“We shared good moments and also made sacrifices for our country and our people. I can never forget all we went through together in the struggle to restore democracy in our land,” Tinubu said.

The President recalled that both men were actively involved in the pro-democracy movement, including the campaign to actualise the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Bashorun Moshood Abiola.

“Kola Oseni was a warrior for democracy. He believed in the ideals of democracy and good governance and fought for them.

“Together, we fought for the sanctity of the June 12 election won by the late Bashorun Moshood Abiola, and together, we struggled to end military dictatorship in the land.”

Tinubu also disclosed that his administration is implementing some of the ideas and reforms he discussed with the late Oseni before assuming office. He noted that although Oseni had relocated to the United States by the time he declared his presidential ambition in 2022, he remained supportive of his aspiration.

“In 2022, when I indicated interest in contesting for the presidency, Kola Oseni blessed my aspiration and offered prayers. But he could do little because by then he had relocated to America.

“As President, I’m implementing some of the ideas and reforms we discussed, determined to make Nigeria better and stronger,” Tinubu stated.

The President thanked the late statesman for his contributions to Lagos State and Nigeria, describing him as a dependable companion.

“Thank you for your service to Lagos State. Thank you for your service to Nigeria. Thank you for being a brother and a friend and for standing by me over the years.”

Describing Oseni’s death as the fall of “an Iroko,” Tinubu said he would always remember his lifelong friend for his ideals and sacrifices.

“Indeed, a brother and a bosom friend has fallen. An Iroko among us has fallen. I give thanks to Allah that Alhaji Oseni lived well, lived to an advanced age, and left behind worthy children.

“I will never forget Kola Oseni. I will never forget all that he stood for.”

The President prayed for Allah to comfort the deceased’s family and grant him Aljanna.

“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.”