AS Nigeria grapples with the intricate tapestry of its political landscape, Chief Abdul-Kareem Adebisi Akande’s 85th birthday becomes a milestone that transcends time. Affectionately known as Baba Akande, his life story embodies the virtues urgently sought in contemporary public service—accountability, transparency, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good.
In the annals of Nigerian politics, Chief Abdul-Kareem Adebisi Akande has navigated political waves with the finesse of a seasoned mariner. From his roles as governor, party leader, to elder statesman, his political journey offers a blueprint for today’s politicians seeking a path of integrity and service.
In an era where self-interest often eclipses public welfare in politics, Baba Akande’s tenure stands out as a beacon of principled governance. Serving as the governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003, and in various national capacities, he exemplified the rare ability to translate words into action. Accountability was not a mere slogan but a palpable practice, marked by open declarations of state resources and an unwavering commitment to due process.
For Baba Akande, transparency was not just a buzzword; it was a foundational principle. He championed policies that demystified government operations, ensuring that governance was transparent and accessible to the people. His leadership underscored the importance of trust-building in a democracy, emphasizing that leaders must embody trustworthiness.
As we commemorate Baba Akande’s 85th milestone, it is crucial to highlight the virtues that set him apart. His dedication to principled politics, a combination of political acumen and unwavering ethics, provides a profound lesson for today’s politicians. His commitment to placing the Nigerian people first reinforces the idea that politics is fundamentally about service and sacrifice.
Baba Akande’s life’s work serves as an illuminating legacy, offering guidance to the current generation of Nigerian politicians. As he adds another year, may they draw from his well of wisdom, adopting his stance on accountability and practicing the transparency he not only preached but personified.
In celebrating this icon, our collective hope is that his values echo within the corridors of power. In a nation yearning for models of integrity and conscientious leadership, Baba Akande stands tall—a figure whose qualities are not mere aspirations for the future but achievable standards for the present.
Happy Birthday, Baba Akande. May your legacy inspire an era of Nigerian politics rooted in the tenacity of principles and the transformative power of a vision for an accountable and transparent Nigeria.
Prof Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is the first Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and the first Professor of African descent to be awarded a Chartered Manager Status