LASU mourns death of Lateef Jakande, First Civilian Governor, Lagos, former Visitor to LASU

Success Damian:

Lagos State University (LASU) said it is mourning the demise of the first Civilian Governor of Lagos State and former Visitor to the University, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, whose death occurred on Thursday, 11th February, 2021. 

In a press statement issued by Ademola Adekoya, Coordinator Centre for Information, Press and Public Relations (LASU) maintained that even though Alhaji Jakande passed away at the ripe old age of 91, his death was nonetheless a great loss not only to the Lagos State and Nigeria, but especially to the Lagos State University, an institution borne out of his visionary leadership, sagacity and deep appreciation for education. 

The statement read further that the fact that the University has survived many storms to stand strong in the comity of Universities, today, tells of the sure and solid foundation upon which Alhaji Jakande founded the institution.

"Like the Lagos State University, his inimitable legacies scattered across the state, almost 38 years after he left office as Governor, remain proofs of his sound and prudent leadership during a period of limited resources.

"And while his tremendous achievements as Governor of Lagos State often overshadow his exploits as a journalist in the 50s, 60s and 70s, Alhaji Jakande undoubtedly remains one of the fathers of the Nigerian Press as his record in the Nigerian Tribune Newspaper and other media houses where he served suggest."

The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Oyedamola Oke, on behalf of the entire University Community noted that Alhaji Jakande has left a huge gap that cannot be filled, and condoles with his family, the Lagos State Government, led by Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, the entire state and the nation on his death. 

He also prayed that the Almighty Allah will grant the departed Aljana Firdaus.