Nigeria lacks leaders in Awolowo’s mould –Cleric

The Bishop of Remo Diocese, (Methodist Church), Revd Michael Akinwale, has said that leaders who have the passion for the development of Nigeria in the mould of the late former Premier of the defunct Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, are very rare.

He said this in his sermon on Friday at the 28th posthumous birthday celebration held in the honour of the late sage held at the family chapel, Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State.

Akinwale said Awolowo, in his lifetime, was committed to the liberation of his people in the South-West in particular and Nigeria in general.

He noted that the country currently lacked leaders that are upright, selfless and honest like Chief Awolowo.

“Today Chief Obafemi Awolowo is still being fondly remembered for his good deeds,” Akinwale said.

According to him, Nigerians still make the achievements of the late Awolowo a reference point 28 years after his death.

The cleric told the gathering, which include family members, friends and other well-meaning Nigerians that the late Awolowo was committed to making Nigeria better and greater than he met it.

Akinwale said Awolowo served the country without counting cost unlike what obtained in the country at present.

He described Awolowo as “a refined politician, a seasoned and visionary leader, voice of the voiceless and a father of a united Nigeria.”

Recalling that many lives were transformed by Awolowo’s passion for the development of his people, Akinwale said, “I am a beneficiary of Papa Awolowo’s free education. Through him, we are what we are. Awolowo was the light that eclipsed our darkness.

He was the pride of the Yoruba race. He loved his nation and people.

“We celebrate sweet memory of Awo. His memory brings joy when we remember him. It brings satisfaction. Many lives were transformed through him. One day, God will raise another Awolowo.