OSOBA AT 87: Soneye Celebrates Aremo Osoba as Bridge Builder, Journalism Icon and Political Statesman

Hon. Soneye Damilola Kayode (SDK), a political leader from Obafemi-Owode State Constituency, has paid glowing tribute to former Ogun State Governor, Aremo Olusegun Osoba, on the occasion of his 87th birthday, describing him as a bridge builder, journalism icon, grassroots mobiliser and one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures.

In a congratulatory message, SDK said Osoba’s remarkable journey from the newsroom to the highest levels of public service reflects a lifetime of dedication to truth, democracy, and nation-building.

He noted that Osoba distinguished himself in journalism through his work with leading media organisations, including the Daily Times, Nigerian Herald and Sketch newspapers, before transitioning into politics, where he served as Governor of Ogun State and emerged as one of the architects of Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

According to SDK, Osoba’s ability to build relationships across political, ethnic and social divides has remained one of his greatest strengths.

He recalled that in Osoba’s 2018 memoir, Battlelines: Adventures in Journalism and Politics, the elder statesman recounted how his professionalism as a Daily Times correspondent earned him the confidence and friendship of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo after covering the sage’s tour of the Western Region in 1967.

SDK further highlighted Osoba’s close relationships with several national leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, former President Muhammadu Buhari, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, Alhaji Umaru Shinkafi, Alhaji M.D. Yusuf and numerous governors and political leaders across the country.

He described Osoba as a key figure in the coalition that culminated in the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC), noting that his years of political networking, mobilisation and consensus-building played a significant role in the emergence of the ruling party.

SDK praised the elder statesman’s enduring commitment to grassroots politics, saying his accessibility, humility and passion for developing people have continued to inspire generations of political leaders.

He added that Osoba’s leadership style has consistently demonstrated that politics should be anchored on service, civility and human development rather than personal ambition.

“As a journalist, he pursued truth with courage. As a politician, he governed with vision. As a leader, he has continued to build bridges that unite people and strengthen democracy,” SDK stated.

Congratulating the former governor on his 87th birthday, SDK wished him many more years of sound health, wisdom and continued service to Ogun State and Nigeria.

He described Aremo Olusegun Osoba as a national icon whose legacy in journalism, politics and public service will continue to serve as a reference point for future generations.