I lost dear friend, valued colleague in Sobowale – Lai Mohammed

Former Minister of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, has expressed profound sorrow over the demise of Prof. Idowu Sobowale. In a condolence statement released on Thursday, Mohammed characterized Sobowale as a "distinguished professional, astute counselor, dear friend, and valued colleague." He emphasized that Sobowale's contributions to public service and education would be indelibly remembered.

Mohammed reminisced about the exceptionally amicable rapport he shared with the deceased. He stated that Sobowale had served as Special Adviser on Education to former Lagos Governor Bola Tinubu while Lai Mohammed held the position of Chief of Staff. He further noted that their friendly rapport persisted even after they had both exited the cabinet.

"I was profoundly saddened by the news of Prof. Idowu Sobowale's passing," Mohammed lamented. "He was not merely a distinguished professional but also a dear friend. 'He was the Special Adviser on Education to former Lagos Governor Bola Tinubu during my tenure as Chief of Staff. 'Our relationship was uniquely harmonious, which persisted even after we both left the cabinet,' he added.

The former minister highlighted Sobowale's invaluable experience, having served under former Governor Lateef Jakande, which greatly benefited his administration. He praised Sobowale's wealth of experience, wisdom, and profound understanding of education and public service. Mohammed expressed deep condolences to Sobowale's family, friends, and associates, praying that God would grant the deceased eternal peace.

He also prayed for the family's fortitude to endure the loss. Sobowale, a celebrated journalist, communication scholar, and former Lagos Commissioner for Education, passed away on October 8 at the age of 85. He was a trailblazer in opinion polling for Nigerian journalism and had molded the careers of countless media professionals and scholars.