The voice of change: Lanrey Osho launches book, praises supporters for successful event
…honours notable contributors
Renowned human rights activist, Comrade Mashood Lanre Osho, celebrated the successful launch of his book, The Voice of Change: A Call for Transparency and Accountability – Lessons from Nigeria’s August Protests, at a well-attended event on December 29 at the KCDI Secretariat, Flower Garden GRA, Ilorin, Kwara State.
The book delves into Nigeria’s history of protests, examining their impact while proposing solutions to governance challenges, with a focus on transparency and accountability.
Speaking at the event, Lanre Osho explained the inspiration behind the book, stressing the lessons from the August protests. He said:
“The protests exposed Nigeria’s vulnerabilities and created widespread apprehension among state governors, traditional rulers, and religious leaders. The aftermath, including destruction and loss of lives, compels us to reflect and learn. This book seeks to guide us toward a better future, offering practical solutions to critical issues.”
Dr. Abdullateef Isiaka Alagbonsi, an Ilorin-born Senior Lecturer at the University of Rwanda, served as the Chairman of the occasion.
Alagbonsi, who is the Founder and Coordinator of the Elites Network for Sustainable Development (ENetSuD), praised the book for its intellectual depth.
He commended Osho, the Deputy Coordinator of ENetSuD, for his consistent advocacy for transparency and accountability, noting the book as a timely contribution to national discourse.
The Chief Launcher, Hon. Moshood Mustapha (Wakili Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate), represented by Hon. Isiaka Mogaji, lauded Osho’s effort. He said:
“This book is an essential tool that encourages transparency and accountability in governance. It inspires intellectual engagement and fosters the culture of knowledge sharing that is critical for societal growth.”
The event also celebrated individuals and organisations for their remarkable contributions to national and community development.
Among the honourees were the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, Professor Ali Ahmad, Comrade Issa Aremu (mni), Barrister Iyiola Oyedepo Akogun, Engr Nurudeen Adeyemi, Dr. Lanre Shittu, Quantity Surveyor Muyideen Okunlola Kayode (MOK), Barrister Abdulkareem Alabi and Alhaji Muftau Akanbi Oke
Other recipients included Hon Yinka Aluko, Alhaji Hakeem Oladimeji Lawal, Engineer Sunday Babalola, Comrade Issa Aremu (mni), Barrister Iyiola Oyedepo Akogun, Hon. Moshood Mustapha, Chief Tunde Bakare and Fatima Bintu Dikko, all of whom were praised for their roles in advancing societal progress.
Organisations such as Just Event Online were also recognised for their impact on media and public discourse.
These honourees, many of whom were represented, were acknowledged for their efforts in fostering development and addressing critical issues affecting Kwara State and Nigeria.
In his post-event remarks, Osho expressed heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to the success of the launch, including the distinguished guests, awardees, organisers, and sponsors. He said:
“I am deeply humbled by the support and encouragement I received during my book launch. This success would not have been possible without the collective effort of everyone involved. May God bless you all abundantly.”
Osho urged Nigerians to embrace the principles of accountability and transparency, emphasizing their role in shaping a brighter future for the country.
The event brought together academics, activists, traditional leaders and media professionals, creating a vibrant atmosphere of intellectualism and advocacy for positive change.
