Gov. Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo state has described the death of Michael Adeyemo, the Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, as the greatest loss to APC government and administration in the state.
Ajimobi made the observation in the condolence register during his visit to the late Adeyemo’s family in Lanlate on Saturday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Adeyemo, 47, died on Friday morning in Ibadan.
Ajimobi, accompanied by his wife, led members of the State Executive Council, APC, Onilala of Lanlate, Eleruwa of Eruwa and others on a condolence visit to the late Adeyemo’s family.
The governor was received by the parents of the late speaker, Mathew Adeyemo (Father), Mrs Dorcas Adeyemo (Mother), family members and the people of Lanlate.
He wrote, “Adesina Michael Adeyemo’s demise is the greatest loss of APC government and administration in the state.
“He was a brilliant, eloquent, intelligent, diligent and most patriotic speaker I ever met.
“He contributed immensely to the success of this administration. He is a peacemaker, bridge-builder and a great son of Lanlate.”
Samson Aderounmu, a Community Leader, who spoke on behalf of the family, said it was sad and devastating ‘’to see someone you thought might live for another 60 years die.
Aderounmu, who commended the governor for his immense contributions to the state, said Lanlate had remained silent from the day the news of Adeyemo’s death was announced.
Onilala of Lanlate, Oba Abdul-Lateef Olagoke, said that the people of the town would continue to appreciate and support the governor, saying he had contributed immensely to the town.
Olagoke appealed to the governor not to forget the town in his administration, particularly now that their son was no more.
“We are happy that our son was elected as the speaker and for the little time he spent, he ensured peace reigned between the executive and legislative arm,” Olagoke said.
The Eleruwa of Eruwa, Oba Samuel Adegbola, described the death of Adeyemo as sudden, shocking and devastating.
Adegbola recalled how the late Adeyemo discussed with him at length for the first time on Saturday, April 21, saying he never knew Adeyemo was bidding him farewell.
“We are happy he lived a fulfilled life. ‘’Death is inevitable, irrespective of age and status.
“I was on my way for a ceremony outside Ibadan with my Chiefs on Friday when we heard the news.
“We were already beside Oduduwa University in Osu Area of Osun State when we heard and we immediately turned back home. It was a rude shock and too sudden.
“Your Excellency, we never knew you have done much good to us with that position until Adeyemo’s death.
The governor’s wife, Florence, Chief Moses Adeyemo, the Deputy Governor, Sen. Abdulfatai Buhari (APC-Oyo North) and hosts of well-wishers were at the Adeyemo’s family house to sympathise with them.