- He added that as Premier of the Western Region, Akintola governed during a critical period marked by ideological struggles
- The President further described Akintola as a committed nationalist who believed strongly in federalism
- Governor Makinde, in his remarks, urged political leaders to prioritise the interest of the state above party affiliations
President Bola Tinubu has described the late Premier of the defunct Western Region, Chief Samuel Ladoke Akintola, as a bold and courageous leader whose role in Nigeria’s political evolution remains significant decades after his death.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Tinubu made the remark on Thursday in Ibadan during the 60th remembrance ceremony held in honour of Akintola, who was assassinated during Nigeria’s first military coup in January 1966. The President was represented at the event by the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu.
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The memorial, which marked six decades since Akintola’s death, brought together top political figures, traditional rulers, jurists and members of the Akintola family to reflect on his legacy and contributions to the old Western Region and Nigeria at large.
Among dignitaries present were the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume; the Olubadan of Ibadanland and Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas, Oba Rashidi Ladoja; Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde; and Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his Special Adviser on Urban Development, Dr Olajide Babatunde.
Also in attendance were the Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Adebo Ogundoyin; the Chief Judge of Oyo State, Justice Iyabo Yerima; former Ambassador to Germany, Prof Akinjide Osuntokun; and the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, who was represented, among others.
In his address, Tinubu noted that history often presents leaders who made difficult decisions in challenging times, describing Akintola as one of such figures.
“History does not always give us perfect heroes, but individuals who acted boldly in defining moments. Chief Akintola was one of them,” the President said.
He added that as Premier of the Western Region, Akintola governed during a critical period marked by ideological struggles, regional tensions and the task of building national institutions from the ground up.
“Whether one agrees with all his methods or not, his clarity of purpose, oratory strength and strong political convictions cannot be ignored,” Tinubu stated.
The President further described Akintola as a committed nationalist who believed strongly in federalism, regional autonomy and leadership guided by ideas, noting that Nigeria still faces similar crossroads today.
Chairman of the occasion, Oba Ladoja, said the gathering was not meant for mourning but for celebrating a life dedicated to public service.
“We are not here to mourn Akintola but to celebrate him. Though he could not complete all he envisioned, he left behind people who can build on his legacy,” the monarch said.
Governor Makinde, in his remarks, urged political leaders to prioritise the interest of the state above party affiliations, stressing that governments and political actors would come and go, but the state would endure.
He also commended the Akintola family for donating the late premier’s residence in Ogbomoso to Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, describing the gesture as a lasting contribution to education and development.
Sanwo-Olu, through his representative, described Akintola as a nationalist whose influence transcended regional boundaries, noting that his death marked a tragic chapter in Nigeria’s political history.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Akintola’s daughter, Dr Bimbo Akintola, said God remained faithful to her father throughout his lifetime, while his son, Justice Ladiran Akintola, expressed gratitude to guests for honouring the family with their presence.
The event, held at the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan, was organised by the Samuel Ladoke Akintola Memorial Foundation.
Highlights of the ceremony included the unveiling of a book titled Akintola: A Bridge Builder, the playback of Akintola’s recorded voice before his death, and the presentation of awards to individuals who have supported and promoted the ideals of the late premier.
Presenting the awards, the Foundation’s Coordinator, Yemi Adedokun, said the recognition was meant to honour individuals who have continued to uphold and advance Akintola’s vision through the foundation’s work.
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