President Bola Tinubu has paid a glowing tribute to elder statesman and progressive politician, Alhaji Ganiyu Kolapo Oseni, describing him as the man who introduced him to politics and stood firmly by him throughout his political journey.
In a personal tribute released on Friday following Oseni’s death, the President expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his longtime ally, describing him as a visionary administrator, democrat, friend and brother whose contributions to Lagos State and Nigeria would remain unforgettable.
“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.
The President praised Oseni’s contributions to public service, recalling his role as Organising Secretary of Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) in Lagos during the Second Republic and his efforts in laying the foundation for the Lagos State Printing Corporation.
He noted that a central mosque at the corporation was recently dedicated in Oseni’s honour in recognition of his contributions.
Reflecting on their personal relationship, Tinubu said Oseni played a pivotal role in shaping his political career.
“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.
“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,” the President stated.
Tinubu recalled their shared sacrifices during Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle, saying they fought together to actualise the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Chief Moshood Abiola and to end military rule.
“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,” he said.
The President also disclosed that Oseni blessed his 2022 presidential ambition and prayed for him, although he was unable to participate actively in the campaign because he had relocated to the United States.
According to Tinubu, some of the reforms currently being implemented by his administration were ideas they had discussed together over the years.
“As President, I’m implementing some of the ideas and reforms we discussed, determined to make Nigeria better and stronger,” he said.
Describing Oseni’s death as the loss of “a brother and a bosom friend,” Tinubu said Nigeria had lost an “Iroko” whose life was marked by service, integrity and commitment to the progressive cause.
“I will never forget Kola Oseni. I will never forget all that he stood for,” the President said.
He extended condolences to Oseni’s family, particularly his wife and children, praying that Almighty Allah grant them the strength to bear the loss and bless the deceased with eternal rest in Aljanna.
“Remi and I wish him eternal rest. May Almighty Allah grant him the best part of Aljanna,” the President added.
