Why I won’t reveal Awo’s secrets —Jakande

LANRE ADEWOLE shared Chief Lateef Kayode Jakande’s reminiscences with him, about his deep relationship with Awo.

 

DURING Awo’s celebrated public life, you had arguably the closest and most complex history of comradeship with him.  Can you break it down for those interested in the history?

Chief Obafemi Awolowo was the greatest political leader of Nigeria in his time.  I was very close to him and I learnt political service from him.  He was a God-sent leader who rendered imperishable service to our country.

 

What was the attraction to him?

His personality was very inspiring; very attractive and loving.

 

You must have seen Awo at both his weakest and strongest moments.  Please share some memorable ones with us sir?

No Comment.

 

Thirty years after, many political leaders, yet he remains the leader.  Are the current crop of leaders too lazy or Awo was just exceptional?

Awolowo was a strong and dependable leader of men and women of Nigeria.  The life of Chief Obafemi Awolowo will be remembered forever by the people of Nigeria.

 

For some great men, their study room is the fortress; some, the people around them.  What was Awo’s fortress?

No Comment

 

Are there secrets Awo shared with you alone that are now ripe for public consumption?

It is natural that in view of our very close relationship, Chief Awolowo shared some secrets with me when he was alive. These secrets cannot be revealed after his exit.  I have to honour him in life and in death.

 

Is another Awo likely or he is going to be the benchmark forever?

Whether another Obafemi Awolowo will emerge in the future is a matter for God Almighty to decide.

 

 In retrospect, was the journey with Awo worthwhile, even if there are regrets?

In retrospect, I do not have any regret for my association with Chief Obafemi Awolowo.  On the contrary, I have gratitude and happiness for my association with Chief Obafemi Awolowo.