Nigerians hail Basorun at book launch

Former Secretary to Lagos State Government (SSG), Chief Olorunfunmi Basorun, has received accolades for his selfless leadership, mentoring and putting Nigeria above other considerations.

Basorun turned 80 this week.

The commendations came yesterday in Lagos at the public presentation of his biography, titled: Paramole O K’oro Iwosi, written by the General Manager, Manpower, Development and Training of Vintage Press Limited, publishers of The Nation titles, Mr. Soji Omotunde.

The chairman of the occasion, Senator Olabiyi Durojaiye, who was represented by Senator Gbenga Ashafa, said Basorun put public interest above personal gains.

He said the politician’s contribution to nation-building will remain evergreen, while his admirers would benefit from his exemplary life.

According to him, the All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain has not changed from the credibility he is known for.

Durojaiye said: “This is a man who I have known for a very long time and who I consider to be deserving of all the encomiums poured on him. Our path crossed in the 1790s when he worked as an Assistant Director at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

“Immediately he saw me as a Nigerian who valued service to the nation far above any pecuniary interest, we stuck together. Severally, he had to travel to the far end of the country at very short notices.

“He did this without grumbling or complaint. Never minding there was little connectivity via bus, this means he had to connect where he was heading via routes that put him at risk.

“On one of such occasions, he was mandated to take a trip to Yola. On his way back, due to the bad weather, his plane was forced to crash-land at Kaduna. Thankfully, they all came out unhurt.

“He ensured the reports of the trip reached the office at the end of the day. I am glad to confirm to you that the same Basorun is still the same person who offered quality service above personal interest.”

Ashafa, who was the book launcher, said the celebrant had become synonymous with hard work, service, integrity and fairness.

The Lagos senator noted that Basorun propelled great things in the country.

He said: “Considering his path as a lawyer, banker and Second Republic SSG in the civilian administration of Lagos State, his wealth of experience will continue to be of immense value.

“On this note, I must thank him for taking the pain to document his journey in the service of humanity and God so far in life. His wisdom and direction were very key in stabilising the Lagos East Senatorial District.”

Omotunde said the book would assist those who want to understand the path the politician took to arrive at the exploit he made.

He added: “The book marks a new milestone in the life of this leader. The fact is that God has a purpose for him. That is why He kept him alive at 80. We should give thanks to God for him.

“In writing the book, you have to understand the man very well: his journey, battles and triumphs. That is to say you must study, read about the man. In doing that, I have learnt a lot about the journey of life.”