• Hail ex-gov as ‘brother in purpose’, champion of good governance
• Say veteran journalist, politician embodies integrity, principled leadership

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, yesterday, paid a glowing tribute to elder statesman, veteran journalist and former governor of Ogun State, Olusegun Osoba, describing him as “a brother in purpose” whose life has been defined by integrity, service and an unwavering commitment to the ideals of good governance.

The President, in a birthday message to commemorate Osoba’s 87th birthday, reflected on their decades-long relationship, recalling shared political struggles, strategic engagements and a common belief that Nigeria could be governed with competence, respect for institutions and accountability.

Tinubu said they were united by a shared vision of building a nation where leadership is anchored on service to the people.

Also, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, described Osoba as an extraordinary patriot, a distinguished journalist, an exceptional democrat, and one of Nigeria’s finest political leaders whose life has been dedicated to the service of humanity.

However, Osoba, also yesterday, received glowing tributes and prayers from religious leaders, associates, traditional rulers and well-wishers during his birthday anniversary.

The thanksgiving and prayer session, held at his Ibara Government Reservation Area (GRA) residence in Abeokuta, attracted members of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), Egba Diocese, Islamic clerics, leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and community stakeholders.

In a similar vein, Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, and the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, praised Osoba’s leadership, resilience and enduring influence on the nation’s political landscape.

Elemide said Osoba’s legacy and the political foundation he had laid should be preserved, stressing that his contributions remain invaluable to both Ogun State and Nigeria.

Salako described Osoba as one of the “living consciences” of Nigeria’s democracy, noting that his contributions to journalism, governance, and the pro-democracy struggle remain indelible.