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Western region ex-governor, Adebayo dies at 89

By Muyiwa Adeyemi (Head South West Bureau), Seye Olumide, (Lagos) and Segun Olaniyi, (Abuja)
09 March 2017   |   4:30 am
Nigerians extoled his virtues yesterday. Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose and Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi yesterday paid tributes to the late General.

Former Governor of old Western Region, Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo

Saraki, Fayose, Fayemi, Afenifere, others mourn

Former Governor of old Western Region, Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo passed on yesterday in his residence at Ikeja Government Reserved Area (GRA), Lagos.

Gen. Adebayo, who was also the president of Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE) died on the eve of his 89th birthday anniversary, scheduled for today.

A statement by his son, former governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Adeniyi Adebayo said: “With gratitude to God, the family of Adebayo of Iyin Ekiti, Ekiti State announce the passing on to glory of our patriarch, Major General (Dr.) Robert Adeyinka Adebayo (rtd).’’

Narrating how he died, one of the deceased aides said: “Gen. Adebayo woke up yesterday morning and demanded we should prepare tea for him. “Some daily newspapers and transistor radio were placed on a white plastic table. He shaved and took his birth before he slumped in the bathroom. He was rushed to Lister Hospital where he was confirmed dead.”

Nigerians extoled his virtues yesterday. Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Ayodele Fayose and Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi yesterday paid tributes to the late General.

Fayose, in a condolence message said Ekiti people would never forget the late general for his love for them and for epitomising the great virtues of an Ekiti person.

He said: “General Adeyinka Adebayo was truly an Ekiti man. He was not a bigot and never allowed political considerations to becloud his sense of fairness, honesty, and boldness in the face of daunting obstacles.

Fayemi described him as a devoted father, leader and administrator with uncommon love and commitment for the progress of his people. Indeed the country of a true patriot and a great leader.

He urged the children of the late elder statesman to be consoled by the fact he lived a good life, touched many lives and left a good name and legacy of service.

The Senate President, Bukola Saraki, 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 the fatherland.

The Secretary YCE, Chief Idowu Sofola described his death as a rude shock. Former governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba said Gen. Adebayo contributed immensely to the return of democratic rule in the country and history will remember some of the great things he did and achieved.

The former military administrator of Ondo State, Chief Olabode George also said Adebayo played a significant role in the country. The Yoruba socio-cultural group, Afenifere in a statement by its Spokesman, Yinka Odumakin, said Adebayo lived a good life to a ripe old age.’’ Among those who mourned Adebayo were Ondo State Governor, Mr Oluwarotimi Akredolu and Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola.

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