Former Governor of Ogun State Chief Olusegun Osoba has disclosed that he would use the rest of his life to serve his grandchildren following his inability to stay regularly as home with his children due to pressure of journalism work as a reporter.
Penpushing reports that Osoba made this known on Saturday at the book launch ceremony titled, My Life in the Public Eye’ centered on, and 85 birthday which was held at Banquet Hall of Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island in Lagos.
The veteran journalist recalled that as a reporter he was unable to create enough time for his nuclear due to pressure of journalism practice, stressing that now that he has clocked 85, he resolved to transfer that missing link with his children to his grandchildren.
‘I have resolved to dedicate rest of my life to my grandchildren, because as a practicing reporter then I don’t have time to stay at home with my family and children, so at my age now, I am going to dedicate my time for the grandchildren to make up my inability to do that for my children’, Osoba emphasized
Penpushing reports that the renowned politician recalling how he cheated death during late Sanni Abacha dictatorship rule when Sergeant Roger was pursuing him, said it was his brother-in-law, who provided hidden abode for him.
The former Governor said he would remain grateful to his brother in-law and all those who supported him by saving his life during the turbulent days of Abacha’s administration, and also gave thanks to God
Penpushing also reports that Osoba said he was overwhelmed by turn out of guests for the ceremony, and commended the Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun for the well packaged book launch and birthday.
The mentor of many journalists within and outside Nigeria on the book said it features some of his historic reflections on issues of public interest since 2019, and also documents salient public reactions to his 2019 memoir, ‘Battlelines’, while his publishers have described his life in the public eye as a legacy work and handy measurement of his politics and person.
Penpushing further reports that President Bola Tinubu in his speech at the event described Osoba as a notable Nigerian who is always concerned about the oneness of Nigeria and her development, adding that the celebrator played leading role as a member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) in ensuring that the country returned to democratic rule.
The President, who was represented by the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima recalled Osoba’s efforts in co-forming the All Progressives Congress (APC), adding that the foremost journalist is always interested in discussing issues with positive impact for Nigeria and Nigerians.
Penpushing also reports that he pointed out that the former Governor’s life would serve as a source of inspiration to the young ones, and called on other Nigerians with a wealth of experience to pen them down for prosperity.
The Nigeria’s President acknowledged the current economic situation in the country but emphasized that his administration was working to address food shortages, just as he called on Nigerians to grow what they eat.
Penpushing reports that Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, in his goodwill message appreciated the author for putting the book together for the benefit of the next generation, adding that Osoba is a great nationalist whose contribution to national development is unparallel
The Ogun State Governor, in his address while recalling the exploit of Osoba in journalism, said as a young reporter covering the 1966 civil war, he discovered the bodies of late Prime Minister, Tafawa Balewa and Finance Minister, Chief Festus Okotie-Eboh.
Penpushing further reports that Abiodun noted that during his tenure as Governor of the State, Osoba exemplified unwavering dedication, integrity, and a profound commitment to public service, adding that he contributed to the development, stability and progress of Nigeria and Ogun State.
‘Throughout his leadership governance, Chief Olusegun Osoba navigated challenges with foresight and determination, laying the foundation for the socio-economic growth we enjoy today. His visionary policies in education, healthcare, rural electrification, infrastructure, and agriculture have left an indelible mark on our state’s landscape’, he stated.
“Chief Osoba’s exceptional drive and penchant for rural development are unprecedented in the history of our State, as he changed the narrative of rural-urban migration during his tenure as Governor by taking development to these communities’, Abiodun added.
Penpushing also reports that Abiodun said the occasion represented the ideals that the celebrant personifies which include good governance that guarantees freedom, fairness, inclusiveness, equity, and justice, making life more abundant and prosperous for the people of Ogun State.
The Secretary to the Federal Government, Senator George Akume, praised Osoba as a cerebral and highly intelligent man, noting that his views on national and political issues are always cogent, even as he appreciated him for putting his experience in the public service into writing.
Penpushing reports that Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Femi Hamzat, who represented Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noted that Osoba is a prolific writer who is passionate about the development of the country, and called on the upcoming journalists not to de-market the nation but write and comment on issues that would be of benefit to the people.
The former Secretary of the Commonwealth, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, in his own goodwill message described Osoba as a distinguished Nigerian who helped in shaping the Daily Times of Nigeria to one of the best newspapers in the country.
Penpushing further reports that the publishers of the book described Osoba’s life in the public eye as a legacy work and handy measurement of his politics and person.
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