Former Lagos Gov Jakande dies

12 Feb Former Lagos Gov Jakande dies

The first civilian governor of Lagos State, Lateef Jakande, is dead. He died in the early hours of Thursday at the age of 91 and it has been confirmed by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as well as one of his sons.

Since then, tributes have continued to pour in from as high as President Buhari, followed by prominent Nigerians and his numerous admirers.

Sanwo-Olu had tweeted: “With gratitude to God for a worthy life well spent in the service of Lagos State, Nigeria and humanity, I announce the death of a venerable statesman, outstanding politician, public administrator and the first Civilian Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande.

“Baba Jakande’s record of service as a journalist of repute and a leader of remarkable achievements as governor of Lagos State will remain indelible for generations to come. His death is a colossal loss and he will be missed.”

The governor expressed his condolences to the family of the late politician, and prayed to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I want to express my sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and comrades of Baba Jakande,” the governor added.

The deceased, a former journalist, was elected the governor of Lagos State in 1979 and served till 1983.

He was later appointed the minister of works under the military regime of late Sani Abacha.