Governor Dapo Abiodun has described Aremo Olusegun Osoba, the former Governor of Ogun State and an elder statesman as an extraordinary patriot, accomplished journalist, exceptional democrat and one of Nigeria’s finest political leaders.
The governor said Osoba’s distinguished career in journalism, politics and public service stands him out as courageous and resilient, a man of integrity with unwavering commitment to truth and justice.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta, Abiodun said Osoba’s influence extends far beyond political office as he continues to mentor generations of leaders within and outside Ogun State.
“Today, we celebrate not just the passing of another year in the life of an exceptional leader, but a lifetime of uncommon service, courage and sacrifice. Aremo Olusegun Osoba belongs to that rare generation of Nigerians whose lives have profoundly impacted the course of our nation’s democratic evolution,” he said.
The governor noted that Osoba excelled both in journalism and public service.
“From the newsroom, where he distinguished himself as one of Africa’s finest journalists, to the Government House, where he provided visionary leadership for Ogun State, Chief Osoba has consistently demonstrated that public office is a sacred trust to be exercised with integrity, wisdom and compassion.
“His invaluable contributions to the restoration and sustenance of democracy in Nigeria remain indelible. Through periods of uncertainty and national challenges, he stood firmly on the side of justice, constitutional governance and the rule of law.”
Abiodun further described Osoba as a father figure whose experience and wise counsel continue to guide successive administrations and political leaders across the country.
“I have been personally privileged to benefit from his fatherly advice, deep political insight and unwavering commitment to the progress of our dear state. His passion for a greater Ogun State has never diminished.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Ogun State, I congratulate our revered leader, mentor and elder statesman, Aremo Chief Olusegun Osoba, on his 87th birthday. I pray that Almighty God grants him continued good health, renewed strength, peace of mind and many more years of purposeful service.”
In his own address at a gathering where the octogenarian was honored, the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Ishaq Kunle Salako, also hailed Osoba, describing him as one of the living consciences of Nigeria’s democracy.
According to Salako, the former governor played a defining role both as an accomplished journalist and as one of the leading figures in the struggle for the restoration of democracy during the NADECO era.
“Chief Olusegun Osoba is one of the living consciences of the democracy we enjoy in Nigeria today. He distinguished himself as a journalist before venturing into politics, where he served twice as Governor of Ogun State.
“During the pro-democracy struggle under NADECO, he stood firmly for the restoration of democratic rule. Today, he remains one of the fathers of modern democracy in Nigeria and one of the strongest pillars of the APC across the country.”
Salako thanked God for preserving the elder statesman and prayed for many more years of impactful service.
“I congratulate him on a life of remarkable accomplishments and dedicated service. My prayer is that Almighty God will continue to preserve him for many more years in good health and strength so that he can continue serving humanity and witness even greater milestones in Ogun State.”
