This is contained in a statement signed by his Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy, Mr Bolaji Tunji, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan on Friday.

Aboderin, 60, died on Wednesday in Lagos after a heart surgery.

Ajimobi described late Aboderin as a lovable brother, consummate gentleman and an illustrious son of the state.

He expressed sadness that death cut short the dream of the foremost entrepreneur and affable administrator whose magic wand further entrenched the Punch as a dominant force.

“The printing of Punch newspaper simultaneously in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt is directly attributable to the business acumen, dexterity and go-getting efforts of my late brother.

“He toiled day and night to sustain the family’s business legacy. It is sad that death has again cut short the life of one of our shining and unassuming stars.

“Wale was a great citizen of our dear state and son of the soil in whom we were well pleased. The news of his sudden death saddens me,” he said.

Ajimobi noted that the deceased’s simplicity and modest lifestyle despite sitting atop a multi-billion naira enterprise are exemplary and noteworthy.

“I was told that no employee enters his office with a frown without leaving with a smile.

“I can boldly say that death is not the end of my adorable brother’s life since only his body departed us. His spirit can never die; it continues to live with us.

“His legacies of humility, selflessness, integrity, diligence and Godliness shall continue to live with us.

“No soothing words can ease the pain and loss his dear wife and lovable children are feeling at this moment, but they will forever be in my prayers and thoughts,’’ he said.

The governor prayed God to grant the Aboderin family, sports community, friends as well as management and staff of Punch Newspapers the fortitude to bear the loss.