President Bola Tinubu has paid an emotional tribute to the late elder statesman Kola Oseni, who died on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the age of 80. In a personal message released by the presidency, Tinubu described Oseni as a brother, mentor, and one of the architects of his political journey, whose contributions to Lagos State and Nigeria would remain indelible.
Tinubu's Heartfelt Tribute
Tinubu stated that he received the news of Oseni's demise with a 'heavy heart,' noting that although the politician had passed on, the memories they shared and the legacy he left behind would endure. Describing Oseni as 'a warrior for democracy' and 'an Iroko,' Tinubu expressed gratitude for his life and service to the nation. According to Tinubu, Oseni's contributions as the organising secretary of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) in Lagos during the Second Republic helped lay the foundation for several institutions, including the Lagos State Printing Corporation (LSPC), where a central mosque was recently dedicated in his honour.
Beyond Public Accomplishments
Tinubu stressed that beyond his public accomplishments, Oseni occupied a unique place in his personal and political life. '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,' Tinubu said, according to The Nation. Furthermore, Tinubu noted that both men fought together for the validation of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola and joined forces in resisting military dictatorship.
Prayers and Condolences
The president prayed for God to grant the deceased eternal rest in paradise and comfort his wife, children, and the entire family with the strength to bear the loss. He also extended condolences to the family and loved ones of the late statesman.
Lagos Mourns Kola Oseni
In the same vein, the management and staff of the Lagos State Printing Corporation (LSPC) expressed profound sadness over Oseni's passing. A statement shared on the official Facebook page of the Lagos State government described Oseni as 'an outstanding administrator and a visionary leader whose contributions laid the foundation for the establishment and growth of the Lagos State Printing Corporation.'
The statement read: 'His passing is particularly heartbreaking as he was not only the Pioneer Chairman of the Corporation but also the beloved elder brother of the General Manager of the Lagos State Printing Corporation, Hon. Dr. Kolawole Peregrino. This is, therefore, a moment of both institutional mourning and profound personal grief for the General Manager and the entire LSPC family.'
Emotional Tribute from LSPC General Manager
In an emotional tribute, the general manager said: 'Today, I mourn not only the loss of my beloved elder brother but also that of a remarkable leader whose vision, wisdom, and commitment laid the foundation upon which the Lagos State Printing Corporation stands today. On behalf of the Management and Staff of Lagos State Printing Corporation, I extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has stood with us in prayers and support during this difficult time. We ask that you continue to remember our family in your prayers as we navigate this painful loss. Though he is no longer with us, his legacy will forever remain a shining light in the history of this Corporation.'
