Ilesa Grammar School Old Boys Celebrate Illustrious Almnus, Lateef Jakande

We received, with mixed feelings, news of the departure of our illustrious member and hero, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, at 91. Alhaji Jakande is, undoubtedly,  one of the finer products of Ilesa Grammar School, and a big symbol of the spirit of excellence that the School is known for. We are sad that we have lost a jewel, a lover of anything and everything Ilegrams! We are however comforted by his exemplary works, with evidential legacies across spheres of human existence.

As a student at Ilegrams from 1945 to 1949, Alhaji Jakande laid the foundation for what turned out to be a life devoted to good works and public service. At Ilesa Grammar School, his activities as editor of the student paper called The Quarterly Mirror prepared him for an outstanding service as a journalist, first with Daily Service newspaper as a reporter (later editor in 1953) and Tribune newspaper (Managing Editor/Editor-in-Chief, 1968 to 1979).

His leadership qualities and vision shone brightly in his capacity as first Executive Governor of Lagos State (1979 to 1983) and subsequently as federal Minister for Works and Housing (1993 to 1995).

Alumnus Jakande’s love for Ilegrams was demonstrated consistently till his last breath. He was Patron of our Association – the Ilesa Grammar School Old Students’ Association (ILEGSOSA) and served the School with everything he had, in several capacities. He is listed in the Ilegrams Roll of Honour, and the School’s 70th anniversary building is fittingly named after him.

The President, HRH (Engineer) Adedoyin Adelekun, other members of the National Executive Committee, National Working Committee, members and everyone associated with Ilegrams, join his family, the good people of Lagos State, Nigerians and humanity to celebrate the life and times of this rare gem.

Temitayo Isaac Odeyemi,

National Publicity and Mobilisation Secretary