Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that there is a strong link between the trio of fiscal federalism, restructuring and state police and running a government that places the people’s interest first.
Makinde said it had become imperative for the country to consider toeing the path of constitutional reform to accommodate these ideas if the government would begin to benefit the people.
He spoke yesterday at the International Conference Centre, Ibadan, where he chaired the 85th birthday lecture of a former governor of Osun State and former acting National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Bisi Akande.
Makinde, who praised Chief Akande for his immense contributions to national development and his service to the old Oyo State, Osun State and the country in different capacities, said it was commendable that people have come together to honour the former governor in his lifetime.
He said, “Baba Akande is, indeed an icon, and, as some of you may already know, he served the Old Oyo State as a Secretary to the State Government and I think in that administration, he also served as a deputy governor.
“Baba does not need to know where you stand or where things stand with him. He will say it the way it is and heaven may fall after that. When they were reading Baba’s citation, they said his introduction to national politics was in 1977.’’
The Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was represented by Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, in his lecture titled: “The Leadership Question: Prospects For Nigeria” charged all Nigerians to take responsibility for leadership, as it is a collective effort to move the nation forward.
President Bola Tinubu, who spoke through the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, lauded the outstanding contributions of Akande to democratic governance in the country.
In his welcome address, the chairman, Board of Trustees, Adebisi Akande Foundation, Emeritus professor Olu Aina, said the gathering was to celebrate an acknowledgement of a life dedicated to service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of the society.
In his response, Akande appreciated the honour bestowed on him.
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