By Oyeniyi Esan
The Olu of Ora kingdom, HRH Peter Oriyomi Ogungbesan, has revealed that Pa. Lateef Kayode Jakande was his surrogate father, mentor and hero in his formative years as a child courtesy of the long-time relationship with his father, Late Chief Thomas Odusanya Ogun with him in their sojourns in the journey of life.
HRH Ogungbesan described the late politician as an epitome of greatness, service to mankind and humility; one of the few outstanding great men the Yoruba race is proud to have.
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According to him, his contributions and commitments to growth and development of Ora community can never be underestimated as he has honoured several cultural activities and festivals in his active years in and out of political offices.
Olu of Ora Kingdom, HRH Peter Oriyomi OgungbesanOgungbesan, in a press release made available by his Media Adie, Oyeniyi Esan, added that the demise of Pa Jakande is a gross loss to the people of Ora community and the royal house of Ora kingdom because of the immortal gratitude owed to his loyalty, respect and friendship.
He said that “As a surrogate father having his picture on the wall of the palace posing side by side with my biological father is a reminder of the need to strive for excellence; such pride is a call to serve best in one’s capacity.”
“He has lived a life without an end, he will forever live in our history because his socio-economic and political policies redefined the modern Lagos state concerning progressive democracy. It is important to note that he championed the cause of justice, fairness and equity in the society as he embarked on free educational and health programs for the sake of the poor and weak. Lagos State University is an example of his immortality.”
Pa Jakande with his friend Chief T. O. Ogun in 1980.He also stated, “Pa Jakande is a household name that needs no introduction when true leadership is meant to be exemplified in the making of the Modern African society; using Lagos as an image of hope for the Black nations across the world. His death is a great loss to the entire Yoruba nation across the globe because he is a hero that served as a true ambassador.
“His life is truly dedicated to service to mankind and his quest for good governance has created a template for true leadership in different capacities. He served Nigeria under the different political atmospheres yet he was able to discharge his duties to mankind with fear and regrets.
“On behalf of Ora people of the community, I commiserate with the family of Late Pa. Lateef Jakande, our political father, Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Babjide Sanwo-Olu, Lagosians and the entire race of Yoruba for the death of an Icon”, he concluded.
