Professor Adeolu Akande, former Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Chief Michael Adeniyi Koleoso, the former Secretary to the Government of Oyo State. Chief Koleoso passed away on Monday at the age of 86.
In a statement issued to correspondents in Abuja, Prof. Akande described Chief Koleoso as an irreplaceable leader both in the politics of Oyo State and the broader Nigerian political landscape. He highlighted that Chief Koleoso’s death represents a significant loss of a vital bridge between contemporary politics and the earlier eras of the first and second republics.
Prof. Akande praised Chief Koleoso as a model politician whose successful career demonstrated that politics should not be treated merely as a means to personal gain. “Baba was a highly successful businessman whose achievements were recognized with the esteemed title of Babalaje of Sakiland. He was also a distinguished civil servant, and his contributions to the healthcare delivery system in Oyo State remain exemplary,” Akande noted.
Chief Koleoso’s political career was marked by extensive and impactful service, including roles as a councillor, member of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Commissioner, Secretary to the State Government, and National Chairman of the Alliance for Democracy (AD). Despite his significant achievements, he lived a modest life that Prof. Akande believes serves as a model for aspiring politicians.
“Baba Koleoso was not an ‘anyhow politician.’ His unwavering commitment to progressive politics and adherence to its principles were evident throughout his life,” Akande remarked. He also emphasized that Chief Koleoso was an advocate of “politics without bitterness,” offering valuable counsel to politicians of various affiliations until his passing.
Prof. Akande reflected on the profound impact of Chief Koleoso’s death, likening it to “the burning of a library,” as it deprives Nigeria of a repository of wisdom concerning history, tradition, politics, and economics. He expressed personal grief,