Governor Adegboyega Oyetola of Osun has described one of his predecessors, Chief Bisi Akande as a leader who is not afraid of his surpassing his achievements in office.
Oyetola said this when he joined President Muhammadu Buhari, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other prominent Nigerians at the public presentation of ‘My Participations’, an autobiography of Akande, the former interim national chairman of our party, the All Progressives Congress.
The book was formally presented to the public on the occasion by Alhaji Kashim Imam, former Presidential Liason Officer to the Senate and Chairman, TETFUND.
Speaking with journalists on the occasion, Oyetola congratulated Baba Akande on the milestone and appreciated him immensely for giving Nigerians, especially the younger generations, a first-hand account into his life and a better insight into how his experiences have shaped him as a person.
Oyetola described the book as a compendium of reflections by a man “whose philosophy about life is inspiring and trans-generational. “
He further described Baba Akande as “a leader par excellence, who was always ready to give his best while in charge and always ready to give counsel, guidance and direction in familiar terrains, not afraid that his predecessors will surpass him”.
He added that Baba Akande played “people and development-centred politics that is hinged on principles and convictions”.
“As a party member, he exuded loyalty to progressive ideals. As a deputy governor, he was loyal to his boss. And as a governor, he demonstrated vision, honesty, probity and exemplary service that set the tone for sustainable development in Osun.
“Baba is an apostle of good and visionary governance. The Osun State secretariat, Abere stands as a testimony to his enduring legacy.
“He is a bridge builder and a detribalised Nigerian whose tenure as the Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress set a solid foundation for a viable and enduring political party.
“Chief Akande has successfully employed mentorship as a capacity building tool for self and societal development. He gave his knowledge and experience freely to his mentees to build a sustainable political structure.
“Indeed, Chief Akande is a bridge between the old and the new politicians, which earned him the alias, Baba awon Omo Ke kee ke (father of small children). He is an ardent believer in one and indivisible Nigeria where equity, fairness and justice reign.
“I, therefore recommend this book to all who seek a purposeful living and crave the same for a stronger, better, more prosperous and enduring Nigeria,” Oyetola added.
