He brought me into politics, stood by me – President Tinubu mourns Alhaji Kola Oseni
President Bola Tinubu has mourned the death of elder statesman and former Lagos politician, Alhaji Ganiyu Kolapo Oseni, describing him as a trusted ally, brother and the man who introduced him to politics.
Tinubu, in a special tribute issued on Friday, said Oseni’s inspiring leadership and industry distinguished him, adding that he remained steadfast during the struggle to restore democracy in 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 said.
He described the late politician as “a visionary administrator, an elder statesman, a progressive politician, and a trailblazer,” whose leadership and commitment to public service left a lasting impact on Lagos State and the country.
Tinubu noted that Oseni served as organising secretary of the Unity Party of Nigeria in Lagos during the Second Republic under the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo and contributed to the establishment of the Lagos State Printing Corporation.
Reflecting on their relationship, the President said Oseni was instrumental in launching his political career.
“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 described Oseni as “a warrior for democracy.”
“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,” the president said.
He added that Oseni also supported his presidential ambition in 2022, despite having relocated 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 the late elder statesman for his service to Lagos State and Nigeria, describing his death as 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 the deceased eternal rest and comfort his family, saying he and the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, wished Oseni “the best part of Aljanna.
