Lagos mourns former chief press secretary Prince Bayo Osiyemi

Lagos mourns as Prince Bayo Osiyemi’s death at 75 is announced, with tributes honouring the veteran journalist and former Mushin chairman

Former Chief Press Secretary to the first civilian governor of Lagos State, Alhaji Lateef Jakande, Prince Bayo Osiyemi, has died in Lagos at the age of 75, his family announced on Monday, 24 November.

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The veteran journalist, fondly known as “Charming Prince,” reportedly passed away early on Monday.

In a statement signed by Seyi Osiyemi, the family said it was mourning the loss of a father, husband, grandfather and respected community figure.

“It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, husband, grandfather and esteemed community leader, Prince Bayo Osiyemi,” the statement read. “He departed this life early this morning, November 24. While we mourn his loss deeply, we also celebrate his well-lived life and the countless individuals he touched.”

The family added that details of the memorial service would be announced in due course.

Prince Osiyemi enjoyed a distinguished public career, serving as Chairman of Mushin Local Government and as Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Matters to the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

He also held notable roles in journalism, including Editor of Lagos News, Chief Executive of Penby Communications, and weekly columnist for The Nation newspaper.

Born on 4 February 1950 to the Sisu and Arowosugbo families of Ijebu-Igbo in Ogun State, Osiyemi traced his royal heritage to the Arowosugbo Dynasty through his mother.

Named Abdul-Lateef at birth, he carried the traditional name Omopeninu, which reflected a prolonged pregnancy said to have lasted three years and four months.

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Tributes are expected from across political, media and cultural circles for a man described by colleagues as principled, charismatic and dedicated to public service.

David Okere