APC chieftain hails Osoba at 85

A member of the National Working Committee of the ruling All Progressives Congress, Tolu Bankole, has congratulated the former Governor of Ogun State, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, on his 85th birthday, saying his exemplary leadership has set a standard for governance.

His felicitation comes barely 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu described the celebrant as a notable Nigerian who is always concerned about the oneness of Nigeria and her development.

Tinubu stated this at the public launch of a book titled “My Life In the Public Eye” to mark Osoba’s 85th birthday held at the Eko Hotels and Suits, Victoria Island, Lagos.

In a statement on Monday, Bankole believed the one-time Daily Times editor and former chairman of the governing board of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism meant more to the people he has impacted.

According to the APC national leader for Persons with Disability, Osoba has redefined governance in his state and remains a towering figure in Nigerian politics.

He said, “Aremo Olusegun Osoba’s life and career are a testament to his unwavering commitment to public service, democracy, and the development of our nation. As an accomplished journalist, he has made significant contributions to the media landscape, upholding the principles of truth, integrity, and freedom of the press.

“His exemplary leadership and dedication as a politician have set a high standard for governance, earning him the respect and admiration of Nigerians across all walks of life. Osoba’s legacy as a mentor to the next generation of leaders is commendable. His guidance, wisdom, and support have nurtured many young politicians and public servants, ensuring the continuity of good governance and democratic values in our country.

“As we celebrate his 85th birthday, I acknowledge his remarkable achievements and contributions to the progress of Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole. May his life continue to be a source of inspiration to all, and may he enjoy many more years of health, happiness and fulfilment.”

Osoba had an illustrious career as a journalist in the 1960s before veering into politics.

The elder statesman was elected as the governor of Ogun State first from 1992 to 1993 during the Third Republic on the Social Democratic Party.

He was later removed from office by the late General Sani Abacha’s administration on November 17, 1993 but was fortunate to be elected again as governor on the platform of the Alliance for Democracy from May 1999 to May 2003.