The death of the former governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has been described as a sad and great loss, not only to Ibadan but also to Oyo State, Nigeria and the world as a whole.
This was contained in the condolence message released by the ‘Ibadan Obas’, comprising High Chiefs and Baales of Ibadanland whom he (Ajimobi) elevated to the status of Obas.
In the message, signed by the Otun Olubadan and Balogun of Ibadan, Oba Lekan Balogun and Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, respectively, the late National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress was described as an illustrious and patriotic Ibadan man and Nigerian of immeasurable zeal.
The statement read in parts, “We are saddened and devastated by the loss of a great man who meant a lot to us as a compassionate, visionary and focused leader, whose exit would create a big vacuum that would be difficult to fill.
“The late Ajimobi was patriotic to a fault, especially in matters that related to Ibadanland. Both friends and enemies that he made were consequences of his undiluted patriotism to the cause of Ibadanland and humanity.
“A sound product of Almighty creator, he deployed his wisdom and experience garnered over the years as an employee in oil company for the upliftment of humanity which accounted for the various legacies left behind in the state.
“Though, not without his shortcomings like every mortal, but, the former governor did his best as a considerate humanist, a sound administrator and a goal getter, breaking the jinx to govern the state for two terms as the most referenced.”
The statement commiserated with his successor in office, Governor Seyi Makinde; the Olubadan of Ibadan, Oba Saliu Adetunji; and the people of Oyo State.
It urged them to be consoled with all the good works left behind by the departed patriot.
Equally, the Obas charged the widow of the late governor, Chief Florence, the children and the entire Ajimobi family to accept the death of their late icon with equanimity and rejoice in the fact that he came, he saw and he conquered.
