Late Kola Oseni, towering figure in Nigeria’s progressive political movement — ex-AD chieftains

The late Alhaji Kola Oseni has been described as a towering figure in Nigeria’s progressive political movement, with tributes highlighting his decades-long commitment to democracy, good governance, and national development.

In a statement issued by former National Publicity Secretary of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), Comrade Umar Farouk, and former National Financial Secretary of the party, Mr. Yunana Shibkau, Oseni was celebrated as a selfless political leader whose contributions helped shape Nigeria’s democratic journey.

The statement followed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tribute in which he described the late politician as a “warrior for democracy” and acknowledged him as his political mentor. 

According to the President, Oseni introduced him to active politics and remained a trusted ally throughout his political career.

Farouk and Shibkau said Oseni’s influence extended beyond President Tinubu, noting that he mentored several generations of politicians who benefited from his experience, wisdom, and leadership.

They traced Oseni’s political career to the defunct Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), where he served as Lagos State Organising Secretary and later as the party’s National Youth Leader, adding that following the dissolution of the UPN, he became a founding member of AD and served on the party’s National Executive Committee.

The statement recalled Oseni’s strategic role in Tinubu’s successful bid for the Lagos West Senatorial seat in 1992 and his unwavering support during Tinubu’s 1999 governorship campaign in Lagos State.

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According to the statement, Oseni remained committed to the progressive movement even after relocating to the United States, where he mobilised political support for Tinubu’s 2023 presidential ambition.

They also credited the late politician with helping to defend the Alliance for Democracy against internal and external challenges, including efforts to undermine the party’s leadership and the administration of then-Governor Tinubu in Lagos State.

The statement alleged that Oseni worked with other party leaders to counter campaigns of misinformation and internal sabotage targeted at the Lagos State government during its early years.

Quoting President Tinubu, the statement noted that some of the reforms currently being implemented by the federal government were ideas discussed over the years with the late Oseni, underscoring what it described as his enduring influence on governance and national development.

The former AD chieftains said Oseni’s life was defined by patriotism, courage, loyalty, and selfless service, adding that his legacy would continue to inspire future generations of progressive politicians.

They prayed for Allah to forgive his shortcomings, grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus, and give his family, friends, and political associates the strength to bear the loss.

Kola Oseni died recently, leaving behind what supporters described as a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s democratic and progressive political history.