By Hussein Olanrewaju
Pastor Ayodele Olaniyi Praise (AOP), former governorship candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) in Ekiti State and Leader of the Àtúnse Movement, has paid glowing tribute to Engr. Kola Lamidi (LMD), describing him as “a leader of leaders” whose exemplary leadership, humility, and mentorship have significantly influenced his personal, academic, and political journey.
In an open letter made available to NewsArena Online Media, AOP reflected on his long-standing relationship with the respected engineer, recounting how his admiration for Lamidi began during his undergraduate years at The Federal Polytechnic, Offa, before evolving into a relationship of mentorship and brotherhood.
The former governorship candidate also acknowledged Lamidi’s support during his gubernatorial aspiration, describing his encouragement, counsel, and unwavering guidance as instrumental throughout the journey.
Below is the full text of the letter as released to NewsArena Online Media.
Engr. Kola Lamidi (LMD): A Leader of Leaders
Sir,
I write this tribute with a heart overflowing with gratitude and deep appreciation for the remarkable role you have played in my life and journey.
My admiration for you began long before we ever met. During my years at The Federal Polytechnic, Offa, in the 1995/96 academic session, your name was one that commanded respect. You were spoken of with pride as the pioneer President of the Student Union Government of our great Alma Mater. Even then, I never imagined that one day our paths would cross.
By God’s divine arrangement, we eventually met when I became an Executive Member of the National Association of Food Science and Technology Students, as a student of the School of Applied Science in the late 1990s. That encounter left an indelible mark on my life. Your leadership, humility, and genuine concern for others inspired me in ways words can scarcely express.
Years later, by the grace of God, I had the rare privilege of occupying the same office you so honourably pioneered, serving as the 5th substantive President of the Student Union Government. Looking back today, I realise that your example had quietly become a compass for my own leadership journey.
Time has continued to weave our stories together. Today, I count it another great privilege to serve under your chairmanship on the Board of Trustees of our Alma Mater. Every meeting with you is another lesson in wisdom, patience, vision, and selfless leadership. You lead not merely with authority but with character, and that is a legacy few can leave behind.
One thing about you has always touched me deeply. You are an Alhaji, while I am a Pastor, yet you have never allowed religious differences to define our relationship. You relate with sincerity, respect, and genuine love. In a world too often divided by labels, you have consistently shown that humanity is greater than identity. That alone makes you an exceptional man.
As I reflect on my gubernatorial aspiration and the journey that accompanied it, your place in that story cannot be overlooked. Your encouragement came when it was most needed. Your counsel gave clarity when decisions were difficult. Your unwavering support strengthened my resolve when the road became uncertain. Without your guidance and fatherly presence, this journey would never have been the same.
You are from Osun; I am from Ekiti. Yet you have taught me that true brotherhood is never determined by geography. To you, a brother is simply a brother, and love knows no state boundaries.
Many people have described me as humble, but whenever I think of humility, I think of you. Despite the enormous grace, influence, and accomplishments God has entrusted to you, you wear greatness so lightly. Your simplicity, accessibility, and genuine respect for everyone remain some of your greatest virtues. You have taught me that the highest form of leadership is service.
Although my aspiration to become the Governor of Ekiti State did not materialise at this time, I remain convinced that God is still writing my story. This chapter is not the end; it is simply another step in the journey toward destiny. As I continue on this path, I look forward to drawing from your wisdom, learning from your experience, and growing under your mentorship.
Thank you for believing in me. Thank you for standing with me. Thank you for proving, through your life, that true leadership is measured not by position but by the lives we influence.
On behalf of my family and the entire Àtúnse Movement, please accept our deepest gratitude and heartfelt appreciation. We celebrate you today and pray that God continues to strengthen you, enlarge your influence, grant you sound health, and reward every seed of kindness you have sown into countless lives.
May your legacy continue to inspire generations yet unborn.
With profound respect and heartfelt appreciation,
PST AYODELE OLANIYI PRAISE (AOP)
Former Gubernatorial Candidate, PRP, Ekiti State
Leader, Àtúnse Movement.
