Saraki
Nigerians from all walks of life yesterday expressed shock at the death of the military governor of the defunct Western Region, Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo, who passed on in Lagos yesterday. They paid glowing tribute to the Iyin-Ekiti-born general, who they said worked for Nigeria’s unity.
He was a fine officer, says Saraki
Senate President Bukola Saraki expressed grief over the death of the defunct Western Region governor.
In a statement, the Senate President described the late general as a courageous and fine officer, who spent the most active part of his life in the service and defense of his fatherland.
He commiserated with the immediate family of the deceased, the government and people of Southwest and Nigerians in general over the incident.
Describing death as an inevitable end for all mortals, Saraki noted that late Gen. Adebayo lived a highly productive, fulfilled and eventful life worthy of emulation.
Saraki said: “It is sad that we have lost an elder statesman whose wealth of experience and fatherly advice is still needed to help us navigate our way out of the present socio-economic challenges confronting the country at this time.
“We are however consoled by the fact that he served the nation conscientiously and gallantly as a courageous officer and gentleman. His life and lifestyle is worthy of emulation. I believe both present and future generations would continue to draw inspiration from his patriotism and loyalty to the national cause. He shall be sorely missed.”
He urged the immediate family of the deceased to be consoled by the good name left behind by the late general and prayed God to grant the soul of the deceased eternal rest.
We have lost another patriot, Aregesola
Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola described the former military governor of the defunct Western Region as a patriot, as he joined well-meaning Nigerians in commiserating with the deceased family.
In a statement, the governor said the death of Gen Adebayo has robbed Nigeria, especially the Yoruba race, of an elder statesman.
It reads: “Gen. Adebayo served his fatherland well. He was a fine officer of the Nigerian Army and did his best in all the capacities where he served. The history of our country is incomplete with adequate mention of this fine officer.”
Recalling the deceased interests in the growth and the development of the Yoruba race, Aregbesola said the former President of the YCE tried to ensure the unity and progress of the Yoruba people.
His words: “We receive with heavy heart the death of one of Nigeria’s finest officers of the Nigerian Army, who fought for the unity of nation.
“No doubt, he is a soldier of repute and commander of men. He distinguished himself in his chosen profession both at home and abroad.
“The history of post-independence Nigeria and the crises that threatened the young nation’s existence will be incomplete without a chapter for this courageous soldier.”
Ambode: Nigeria has lost a great patriot
Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode expressed sadness over the demise of elder statesman, describing Adebayo’s demise as a great loss to the nation, especially to the Southwest.
Ambode said in statement: “Gen. Adebayo was a great patriot and one of Nigeria’s foremost nationalists who never shied away from expressing his love for his country and his people. He was a brilliant administrator who was known for his dedication and zeal to serve his fatherland.
“Those who know papa would attest to the fact that he was a man of many parts. For the Yoruba nation, this is a great loss. His passion to see the integration of the South West region was second to none. No doubt, we would miss his wise counsel especially at this time when our nation is on a path to rebirth.”
Commiserating with the family of the late elder statesman, the governor urged them to uphold the ideals he stood and fought for, saying that the nation will continue to draw inspiration from his life and times.
“His demise, just like that of our heroes past, must never be in vain. There can be no better time to unite together to achieve a better and more prosperous Nigeria”, he said.
Fasanmi , Fasehun mourn Adebayo
Afenifere leader, Senator Ayo Fasanmi expressed shock over the death of the former Military governor and Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) President.
Fasanmi in a condolence message stated: “I am greatly shocked to hear the sad news of the death of a compatriot of our dear General Adeyinka Adebayo. The great General had come, had seen and conquered; leaving an indelible foot-print on sand of our time.
“His death is an irreparable loss not only to the Yorubas but to the entire nation that he served as an indefatigable army General and Governor. Please accept my heartfelt condolences for the irreparable loss. May his soul rest in perfect peace”.
The Odua Peoples’ Congress (OPC) Founder Dr Fredrick Fasehun described the death of Gen. Adebayo as a big loss not only to the Yoruba but the nation.
Fasehun in a telephone interview said: “Why should it happened now that the Southwest leaders have united to fight the course of the Yoruba nation. But who are we to query God, our creator”
He prayed God to grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and grant the deceased eternal rest.
His death a personal loss, says Adelabu
Former Ekiti State Governor Prof Modupe Adelabu described Gen Adebayo’s death as a personal loss to her, recounting how the former military governor stood by her late father.
Mrs Adelabu said: “Baba’s death is a personal loss to me and the entire Adejugbe family. He stood in the gap for our late father who was a friend and brother to him.
“Baba we would surely miss your fatherly role. You were the last man standing indeed and you stood firmly and right. Sleep on dear father.”
