Jakande’s servant-leadership mindset remains relevant — Olurode

Jakande’s servant-leadership mindset remains relevant — Olurode

 

LAGOS — A retired Professor of Sociology at the University of Lagos, Lai Olurode, has described the late first civilian governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, as a symbol of ethical and people-centred leadership, saying his “servant mindset” continues to offer lessons for today’s political class.

Olurode spoke in Lagos on February 11, 2026, at a commemorative event marking the fifth anniversary of Jakande’s passing, where he delivered a tribute titled “Jakande’s Servant Mindsets Remain Evergreen.”

Reflecting on Jakande’s legacy, Olurode said the late governor’s decisions were largely driven by public good rather than personal gain.

“An analysis of Jakande’s actions… reveals that his major actions weren’t self-interest driven but motivated by a consuming concern for the enhancement of public goods,” he said.

He noted that Jakande’s tenure expanded access to education, healthcare, roads and employment, with benefits reaching ordinary citizens rather than a narrow political circle.

According to him, the former governor demystified governance by taking it to the grassroots and maintaining close contact with the masses.

Olurode also recalled the period following the 1983 military coup, when praise for Jakande’s achievements continued despite the prevailing political climate, citing an incident where a government official described the ousted governor as a “superstar.”

Highlighting Jakande’s personal style, he said the late leader avoided flamboyance, cut the cost of governance and remained accessible even after leaving office.

“Jakande shunned flamboyance and the wasteful paraphernalia which many Nigerian leaders artificially surround themselves with,” Olurode added.

He urged contemporary leaders to embrace ethical values, inclusivity and accountability, noting that Jakande’s legacy endures decades after his single term in office.

The event also featured reflections on Jakande’s contributions to Lagos State and tributes to his family, including his wife, Alhaja Sikirat Abimbola, and their children.