All Progressives Congress stalwart, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has expressed sadness over the death of Afenifere Leader, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, describing him as a true Awoist who taught many of the younger generations of politicians including himself the doctrines of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
In a statement issued, by Tinubu’s Media Office signed by Mr Tunde Rahman,the former Lagos governor said the late legal luminary left behind his enduring legacies.
“The news of the passage of one of our foremost leaders in Yoruba land and a national Icon, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi, on Friday, November 4, 2016 left me distraught. He was one of the very few we had left to guide our path with wisdom”, he said.
ina seperate statement, Governor of Osun state, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, also said the death of the elder statesman has robbed the Yoruba people of a true leader.
the Governor said the late frontline politician believed and worked for the progress of the Yoruba race and the country as a whole.
he further described the deceased politician as a giant and one of the surviving disciples of the Awolowo School of thought.
among those who paid condolence visit to the country home of the late elder statesman was former governor of Ogun State, otunba Gbenga Daniel, Senator Adegbenga Kaka as well as residents of Isara-Remo in Remo North local government area of Ogun state.
Sir Ajayi had reported complained of chest pain on Thursday afternoon and was taken to Lagos by his eldest son, Dr. Konyin Ajayi, before he passed away in the early hours of Friday, at an undisclosed hospital.
Speaking with reporters, one of the nephews of late Olaniwun, Mr. Adebari Ajayi, described his death as a great loss, not only to his family, but Israra and the entire Remoland.
He said, “Papa was a great catalyst to the development of his hometown, Isara and the entire Remoland. It will be difficult to fill the vacuum he has left behind here in Isara and Nigeria. He will be greatly missed”.
Meanwhile, in his condolence message, the former governor of Ogun state, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, described the late Afenifere chieftain as a democrat of repute and an elder statesman who dedicated his life to the service of his people and the country.
“Late Sir Ajayi was a very strong force in Nigerian polity and well respected in the political landscape over the years as he improved on the democratic ideals of the founding fathers and played his roles in the service to the nation in various capacities”.
“He was a courageous personality noted for his frank disposition to issues and policies. He remained principled when it mattered most and never compromised his stance even in the midst of challenges. His invaluable contributions to national development will be greatly missed”. The message partly read.
Also, the former Senator representing Ogun East senatorial district, Adegbenga Kaka, wrote in the condolence register that, Sir Olaniwun Ajayi was a consumate Awoist, political mentor to uncountable, legal Icon, epitome of good morals, neatness personified, educationist, a communicator per excellence, spiritual developer in his area of influence, passionate upholder of our cultural values, peace maker with no boundary, outstanding lover of his family, community and nation.