Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has announced the death of Alhaji Lateef Jakande, the first civilian governor of the state,
Jakande, popularly known as Baba Kekere, died on Thursday morning in Lagos at 91.
In a post shared on his Twitter page, Sanwo-Olu mourned the former governor and described his death as a colossal loss.
“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,” Sanwo-Olu tweeted.
Sanwo-Olu said 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, adding that “his death is a collosal 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,” he wrote.
Jakande was governor of Lagos State from 1979 to 1983, and later was Minister of Works under the Sani Abacha military regime between 1993–1998.
KanyiDaily had also reported that Benue State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Victoria Asher, recently died after giving birth to twins.