A Second Republic Senator from the old Ondo State, Michael Onunkun, popularly known as MAE Onunkun, has passed away at the age of 98.
Onunkun represented Ondo West Senatorial District, which is now Ondo South, in the old Ondo State from 1979 to 1983.
His daughter, Mrs. Morenike Alaka, confirmed his passing to NAN on Thursday in Okitipupa.
Alaka, a former Chairman of Okitipupa Local Government, stated that the elder statesman breathed his last around 11:57 p.m on Wednesday at the West End Hospital, Okitipupa.
“My dad, a distinguished Senator in the Second Republic, undoubtedly had his flaws, but he was a great statesman, a fantastic man, a lover of children, and education.
“He was a great politician who remained active in politics until his passing because whenever we were together, he still discussed politics.
“We were preparing for his 99th birthday on Sept. 30, but unfortunately, he passed away last night. His death is painful, and all of his children, family, and the Ikale people will miss him greatly,” she said.
NAN reports that Onunkun was survived by two wives and 12 children – seven males and five females.
