Former Lagos governor, Lateef Jakande, dies at 91

Victoria Ogunrinde
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A former Governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, on Thursday died at the age of 91.

The Incumbent Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who confirmed the passage of the elder statesman in a statement said “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.

The statement reads, “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.

“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.

“May Allah grant him Aljanat Firdaus, Aamin,” Sanwo-Olu added.

Late Jakande, also known as Baba Kekere, brought a lot of development to Lagos as governor between October 1, 1979 and December 31, 1983, in line with the five cardinal programmes of the Unity Party of Nigeria founded by a former Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.