STATEMENT ON THE REMEMBRANCE AND BIRTH ANNIVERSARY OF ALHAJI (CHIEF) LATEEF KAYODE JAKANDE
By Hon. Oluwaseyi A. Akinde
ADC House of Representatives Candidate, Ikeja Federal Constituency
Today, we honor the memory and celebrate the birth anniversary of one of Nigeria’s greatest statesmen, Alhaji (Chief) Lateef Kayode Jakande, a leader whose name remains synonymous with visionary leadership, integrity, and selfless public service.
Chief Jakande’s tenure as the first civilian Governor of Lagos State (1979–1983) set a standard that generations of leaders continue to admire. Despite limited resources, he demonstrated that sincere leadership, prudent management, and genuine compassion for the people could transform lives.
His administration delivered affordable housing for thousands of families, expanded access to free and quality education, strengthened healthcare, improved transportation, and invested in infrastructure that laid the foundation for the modern Lagos we see today. More importantly, he governed with honesty, humility, and accountability, proving that public office is a sacred trust and not an avenue for personal enrichment.
As I reflect on his remarkable legacy, I am reminded that politics should never be about power for its own sake. It must be about service, sacrifice, and creating opportunities for ordinary citizens to live better lives. Chief Jakande’s example continues to shape my understanding of leadership and reinforces my commitment to pursue people-centered representation built on transparency, competence, and compassion.
As we work towards rebuilding Ikeja and strengthening our democracy, we must return to the values that defined leaders like Chief Jakande—integrity, simplicity, fiscal discipline, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people.
On this special day of remembrance, I join millions of Nigerians in celebrating a true patriot whose legacy continues to inspire hope and responsible leadership.
May his life continue to remind us that the greatest legacy any leader can leave behind is a people whose lives were genuinely improved through faithful service.
Happy Posthumous Birthday, Baba Jakande.
Your legacy lives on, and your ideals remain a guiding light for generations to come.
Hon. Oluwaseyi A. Akinde
ADC House of Representatives Candidate
Ikeja Federal Constituency (2027)
#RethinkIkeja | #PeopleFirst | #LeadershipWithIntegrity
