The word integrity comes from the root word integer which means whole, complete or entire. It is a firm adherence to a code of morals, values, and behavior. Integrity is uprightness of character, trustworthy action, and responsible commitment.
Integrity is a refusal to be false to a trust, responsibility, or pledge. It is the quality of being honest and fair and it must be on display for all to see.
Putting the record right, Hon. (Comrade) Joseph Akinlaja track records have given him the opportunity to be rated a great and enviable leader known for transparency, ingenuity, integrity, discipline and of high moral standard. His persona is also derived from the sterner stuff of life, the compulsive need to weave enduring strands or legacies that would out-live one and the desire to be a change agent in the discharge of the social contract.
A man of great patience and tolerance, his scruples border on the fundamental assumption that life is a selfless service in which there is more to gain in giving of one’s time, energy and resources than in being a docile recipient of its offerings.
He had displayed this rare virtue when he held sway as the General Secretary of NUPENG with many indelible achievements to his credit during those memorable years and most recently, he served for two terms of (8 years) as representative of Ondo East and West Federal Constituency at the National Assembly and always appreciated for his need analysis style of representation for his constituents throughout his legislative years.
Akinlaja’s personal reputation for incorruptibility has survived his time in various positions he occupied since his youthful and adult years both in private and public sectors, which is an uncommon feat among Nigerian leaders.
His consistent display of kindness, hospitality and investment in human capital particularly to the vulnerable segments of the society is another aspect of him that has remain a talking point among the people which has grossly attracted lots of encomium and prayers. This is what true leaders do. This culture of sacrifice, loyalty, compromise for common good and selflessness is why Hon Joseph Akinlaja has remained not just relevant but pivotal to Nigeria’s democracy.
This is also why he remains one of the biggest icons of modern democracy in Nigeria and indeed the African continent. Aside politics, his records as Technical Consultant and Life Patron to the Petroleum Tanker Drivers Branch of NUPENG has proved his worth as a seasoned administrator with uncommon metrics in proffering fruitful and positive solutions to issues in the petroleum downstream value chain in the overall interest of Nigeria.
Ekimogun is indeed fulfilled, rewarded and elated in seeing their illustrious son making them proud locally and outside the shores of Africa in his impactful socio-economic strides and empowerment initiatives with no shred of bias or prejudice. Nigeria still deserves a true patriot like this in our national affairs.
