Tinubu Remembers Kola Oseni, His Political Mentor

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sadness over the death of Alhaji Ganiyu Kolapo Oseni, a respected elder statesman and former Lagos politician. Tinubu called Oseni a trusted ally, a brother, and the man who brought him into politics.

In a special tribute released on Friday, Tinubu said that Oseni's strong leadership and hard work set him apart. He noted that Oseni was always there during the fight to bring democracy back to Nigeria.

“It is with a heavy heart and deep sadness that I received the news of Alhaji Kola Oseni’s passing. Though he is no longer with us, the memories of the time we shared and the legacy he left will endure,” the President stated.

Tinubu described Oseni as “a visionary administrator, an elder statesman, a progressive politician, and a trailblazer.” He said Oseni's dedication to public service made a lasting difference in Lagos State and across the country.

Oseni served as the organising secretary of the Unity Party of Nigeria in Lagos during the Second Republic, working under the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He also played a key role in setting up the Lagos State Printing Corporation.

Looking back at their relationship, Tinubu said that Oseni was vital in starting his political journey. “To me, however, he was much more than that. He was a leader, my ally, my comrade, a friend and a brother rolled into one.

“He brought me into politics and stood by me along with others to become the Senator representing Lagos West and later the governor of our Lagos State. We shared good moments and also made sacrifices for our country and our people. I can never forget all we went through together in the struggle to restore democracy in our land.”

Tinubu called Oseni “a warrior for democracy.” He said, “He believed in the ideals of democracy and good governance and fought for them. Together, we fought for the sanctity of the June 12 election won by the late Bashorun Moshood Abiola, and together, we struggled to end military dictatorship in the land.”

He added that Oseni supported his presidential ambition in 2022, even after moving to the United States. “In 2022, when I indicated interest in contesting for the presidency, Kola Oseni blessed my aspiration and offered prayers. But he could do little because by then he had relocated to America.

“As President, I’m implementing some of the ideas and reforms we discussed, determined to make Nigeria better and stronger.”

The President thanked Oseni for his service to Lagos State and Nigeria, calling his death a personal loss. “Indeed, a brother and a bosom friend has fallen. An Iroko among us has fallen.

“I give thanks to Allah that Alhaji Oseni lived well, lived to an advanced age, and left behind worthy children. I will never forget Kola Oseni. I will never forget all that he stood for.”

Tinubu prayed for Allah to grant Oseni eternal rest and comfort his family. He said he and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, wished Oseni “the best part of Aljanna.”