SENATOR Abdulfatai Buhari (APC – Oyo North) and Chief Niyi Akintola (SAN) have described the death of former Gov. Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State as a colossal loss.
Buhari and Akintola expressed the sadness in separate condolence messages to Ajimobi’s family on Friday in Ibadan.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ajimobi died on Thursday in a Lagos hospital at the age of 70.
Buhari, the Chairman, Senate Committee on Land Transport, said that Ajimobi’s death was a bitter pill that could not be easily swallowed.
“I received the news with disbelief because I was hopeful that he would come back to us alive.
“I have lost a brother, benefactor and political leader.
“It is indeed a sad moment, we can only pray to Almighty Allah to forgive his sins and comfort us,” he said.
The lawmaker said that the death came at a time the people least expected it.
“We are consoled by the fact that he left good legacies which he would forever be remembered for.
“I pray that Almighty God will grant him eternal rest and comfort his immediate and extended as well as political family,” he said.
Also, Akintola, described Ajimobi’s death as a huge loss to Nigeria and the entire black race.
In a message signed by his Personal Assistant, Prince Olumuyiwa Akinbiyi, Akitola said that Ajimobi would not be forgotten as one of the finest Africans who did their best to change the face of leadership and public administration in the 21st century.
The legal luminary described the late governor as a courageous man who traversed many areas of life and impacted positively.
“After a successful career in the organised private sector, he came into politics with a mission to change the face of democratic governance, and he was able to achieve a lot despite many odds which came his way.
“At a time when democracy was heading for the rock in 2006, Ajimobi was among the courageous federal lawmakers who thwarted ill-advised agenda.
“This was in addition to his brilliant contributions to legislative activities and robust engagement at the Fifth National Assembly,” he said.
Akintola said that when Ajimobi became Governor of Oyo State in 2011, it took him little time to convince the world about his readiness and determination to change the narrative of sloppiness as well as window dressing.
He said that Ajimobi came up with a broad vision to restore, transform and reposition the pacesetter state, adding that he emerged the architect of modern Oyo State after an unprecedented two consecutive terms in office.
“Losing such a great man to the cold arms of death at a time when his wealth of experience, renewed passion, and candour are needed more indicates a disaster of an unquantifiable magnitude.
“However, we find solace in the legacy of hard work, innovation, and unbeatable achievements which he left behind.
“May God grant him eternal rest and uphold members of his immediate family as well as all his friends, supporters and associates,” Akintola said. (NAN)
