An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Osun State, Prof. Siji Olamiju, has paid glowing tributes to former National Chairman of the party and ex-governor of Osun, Chief Bisi Akande, as he marks his 87th birthday.
Olamiju, a former Special Adviser on Public Health to ex-Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, described Akande as an uncommon leader, a progressive icon and one of the last standing disciples of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo in Nigeria’s political history.
In a statement issued on Wednesday in Osogbo, Olamiju said Jan. 16 had become a significant date for progressives across the country, noting that politicians and admirers from different walks of life usually converge on Akande’s hometown to celebrate his contributions to democracy and good governance.
“Chief Akande is a leader specially endowed by God, whose life of discipline, integrity and selfless service has remained a reference point in public service.
“He is a man who comes once in a century and for over four decades, he has devoted his life to the service of humanity and the development of Nigeria through progressive politics,” he said.
Olamiju recalled that Akande served meritoriously as Secretary to the Oyo State Government under the late Chief Bola Ige and later as Deputy Governor during the era of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), under the leadership of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
He added that following the creation of Osun State, Akande emerged as the second civilian governor, laying a solid foundation for transparent, disciplined and accountable governance.
According to him, Osun recorded remarkable achievements in prudence, accountability and institutional development during Akande’s tenure, noting that many of the standards he set remained difficult for successive administrations to surpass.
Olamiju also commended Akande for the construction of the Osun State Secretariat Complex for civil servants, describing it as one of the largest and most enduring government secretariats in the country.
He prayed for God’s continued grace upon the elder statesman, wishing him long life, sound health and more years of impactful service to humanity.