Kogi State governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has described former governor of old Kwara State, Senator Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, as a statesman of uncommon integrity and distinction.
Ododo through his media aide, Ismaila Isah, said Adebayo, a proud son of Oke Onigbin in Kwara State, lived a life defined by integrity, brilliance and selfless service to his people and the nation.
In a condolence letter to the family of the deceased, the governor declared that, “Chief Adebayo was a true patriot who discharged his duties with fairness, vision and uncommon passion. As governor of the Old Kwara State, which comprised present-day Kwara and Kogi States, he stood as a bridge-builder, leaving behind golden footprints of leadership that continue to inspire us today.”
He added that Adebayo’s later service as senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and minister of Communications and Transportation elevated his status as one of Nigeria’s most outstanding public servants.
Ododo said Adebayo was a democrat who believed in the power of education, justice, and good governance as tools for nation-building, adding that his contributions would remain indelible in the people’s hearts.
He said the people of Kogi State, who share in the common heritage of the Old Kwara State, would continue to remember Adebayo with deep gratitude and respect.
