Tinubu Honors Late Premier, Akintola’s Legacy of Boldness, Nation-Building
Tinubu Honors Late Premier, Akintola’s Legacy of Boldness, Nation-Building
President Bola Tinubu has lauded the late Premier of the old Western Region, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, describing him as a brave and significant leader.
Represented by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, during a 60th memorial service in Ibadan, the President remarked that Akintola’s role in shaping the nation remains a vital chapter in Nigeria’s political evolution.
The gathering at the University of Ibadan commemorated 60 years since Akintola was killed during the 1966 military coup. The event drew an array of prominent traditional rulers, legal experts, and politicians who converged to honor the former premier’s enduring influence on both the Western Region and the federation.
In his address, President Tinubu recognized the complexities of Akintola’s career while highlighting his fortitude, stating “History does not always offer us perfect heroes. Instead, it offers us human beings who acted boldly in difficult time. Chief Akintola was one such man.”He further explained that Akintola led during a critical time characterized by regional growth and the creation of national institutions.
The President characterized Akintola as a committed nationalist who championed federalism and regional independence.
He commended the late leader’s eloquence and strategic political mind, noting that his firm convictions were evident despite any controversies surrounding his tactics. Tinubu also observed that Nigeria’s current political landscape mirrors the complexities of Akintola’s era.
The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, emphasized that the event was a celebration of a life dedicated to the people rather than an occasion for grief. He portrayed Akintola as a visionary whose personal sacrifices serve as a beacon for modern leaders. Ladoja added that while his tenure was interrupted, he left a foundation for future generations to build upon.
Governor Seyi Makinde called on today’s politicians to place the welfare of the state above their political affiliations, noting that while parties change, the state is permanent.
He also expressed gratitude to the Akintola family for their gift of the late premier’s Ogbomoso residence to the Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH).
Speaking on behalf of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Olajide Babatunde described Akintola as a patriot whose impact was felt throughout the country, calling his assassination a dark moment in Nigeria’s history. Several other dignitaries, including Senator George Akume and Speaker Adebo Ogundoyin, were also in attendance to honor the late Premier’s memory.
The ceremony included the debut of a book titled ‘Akintola: A Bridge Builder’ and a moving playback of the late premier’s voice from historical recordings. Organized by the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Memorial Foundation, the program ended with awards presented to those who have actively upheld the principles and legacy of the late Chief.
