The Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Ila-Orangun (FUHSI), Osun State and a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Wale Sulaiman, has extolled the virtues of a revered statesman and icon of progressive politics, Chief Abdulkareem Adebisi Bamidele Akande, describing him as one of the living disciples of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Professor Sulaiman said this in a statement marking the 87th birthday anniversary of the former Governor of Osun State.
He said the former Interim National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) stands today as one of the last towering figures who not only learned directly from Chief Awolowo but has faithfully lived, defended, and propagated the school of thought anchored on integrity, discipline, welfarism, and democratic socialism.
According to him, Akande’s political life reflects the purest essence of Awolowo’s philosophy, where public office is viewed as a sacred trust and leadership is defined by service, accountability, and moral courage.
He described Chief Akande as a custodian of principled governance whose life and conduct have remained consistent with the values that shaped Western Nigeria’s legacy of free education, strong institutions, and responsible leadership.
- Quomodo Inter-School Swimming Grand Slam: Onabolu speaks
- NNL Super 4: Sporting Lagos file out against Ranchers in opener
- Ikenne agog for NNL Super 4, as Aluo vows exciting tournament
- That Abakaliki Custodial Centre NOUN matriculation, by Oswald Agwu
- Tegbe: A square peg in a round hole?, by Kazeem Akintunde
Prof. Sulaiman further described the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the University of Ibadan as a statesman of rare depth, whose calm intellect, historical consciousness, and capacity to manage complex political issues have continued to earn him respect across generations.
He noted that Chief Akande’s tenure in public service, particularly as governor and party leader, demonstrated uncommon discipline, fiscal prudence, and the courage to take difficult decisions in the state and national interest.
He added that Chief Akande’s enduring relevance in national discourse is a testament to his wisdom, clarity of thought, and unwavering commitment to reform-driven leadership, making him a constant point of reference for young technocratic politicians and reform-minded leaders across the country.
Reflecting on a recent birthday visit to the elder statesman, Prof. Sulaiman said he was deeply inspired by his ever-refreshing insights on politics, governance, and nation-building, noting that age has only sharpened his wisdom and perspective. He described him as a national treasure, mentor, and moral compass for the progressive family.
Prof. Sulaiman joined fellow progressives, mentees, and well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating Chief Akande, praying for continued good health, sound mind, and many more years of impactful service to the nation and humanity.
