A member of the House of Representatives, Honourable Oluwole Oke, has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the posthumous conferment of the national honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on the late Chief Bola Ige, SAN.
In an official communique released on Friday, Oke, who represents Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency in Osun State, described the recognition as both “fitting” and “long-overdue” for a man he referred to as “a towering Nigerian statesman” and “a beacon of hope and resilience.”
Chief Bola Ige, fondly known as the Cicero of Esa-Oke, served as Governor of Old Oyo State and later as Nigeria’s Attorney-General and Minister of Justice. Renowned for his eloquence, intellect, and unyielding commitment to democratic principles, Ige was assassinated in 2001 under still-controversial circumstances.
In his statement, Rep. Oke hailed Ige’s legacy of “courage, integrity, and visionary leadership,” and emphasized that the CFR award reflects the enduring relevance of the late statesman’s contributions to Nigerian democracy and governance.
“Chief Bola Ige was not only a son of Osun State but a beacon of hope and resilience for all Nigerians.
This recognition by President Tinubu is a testament to the enduring impact of his contributions to our country’s development and democratic ideals. It reminds us that true patriotism transcends time and that the values he stood for remain vital to our collective progress,” he said.
He also praised President Tinubu for what he called a “demonstration of foresight and commitment” in recognising national heroes, asserting that such gestures rekindle national pride and offer younger generations role models grounded in public service and patriotism.
Oke concluded by urging Nigerians to reflect on Ige’s legacy and recommit themselves to the ideals of justice, unity, and good governance.
