Former governor of Ekiti State and ex-chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has expressed heartfelt condolences over the death of a former minister of state for education Chief Kenneth Gbagi under the administration of then President Goodluck Jonathan.
In a statement released by his media office, Fayemi described the passing of the 62-year-old Gbagi as profoundly sad and shocking, stating that the nation has lost a dedicated public servant and patriot.
He said Gbagi was a dear friend who as the minister of state for Education played a pivotal role in the establishment of new federal universities.
Fayemi said, “Gbagi’s contributions to the education sector in Nigeria are immense and enduring. As Minister of State for Education, he played a key role in the establishment of six new federal universities across the country, including the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti, Ekiti State, a feat that significantly expanded access to quality tertiary education for our teeming youth.”
He praised Gbagi as a dedicated businessman, public servant, and politician who was influential in the politics of Delta State and who leveraged that influence to improve the lives of his people.
The former governor noted that his passing leaves an immense void but that his exemplary life will continue to inspire many.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the Gbagi family, his friends and associates, the people and the government of Delta State in this trying time. We have lost a great patriot, but his legacy will continue to inspire us all. May his soul rest in the bosom of the lord,” Fayemi added.
