Some governors have paid tribute to the former governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, whose death was announced on Thursday.
Ajimobi died at a Lagos hospital where he was receiving treatment for coronavirus.
Their tributes are contained in different condolence messages sent shortly after Ajimobi’s death was announced.
The governors include Gboyega Oyetola of Osun State, Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti State, and Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State.
The tributes read in part:
Gboyega Oyetola
“I am shocked and saddened by the demise of Senator Abiola Ajimobi. His death is unfortunate, painful and a huge loss. My thoughts and prayers are with the Ajimobi family, his loved ones, the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the people of Oyo State, whom he served meritoriously as Governor for eight years.
“As a two-term governor, Senator Ajimobi redefined governance in Oyo State. His administration embarked on unprecedented infrastructure development in the State and redefined the urban status and development profile of not only the capital city, Ibadan but other major cities in the State.
“Senator Ajimobi was also a true progressive and a loyal party man. He was committed to the ideals of the APC and will be sorely missed by the party.”
Kayode Fayemi
“We have lost a star. A man of honour and a statesman. But we are consoled that Governor Ajimobi lived a good life, made his mark in his chosen fields, lifted many and left a good name and legacies of honour and industry. We shall surely miss him.
“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Ekiti State, we commiserate with his immediate family, the government and people of Oyo State and pray that God will grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss and grant his soul eternal rest.”
Babajide Sanwo-Olu
“The passage of Senator Ajimobi hurt me. My heart was filled with grief when I was informed that I had lost another political icon in our battle against the coronavirus.
“Senator Ajimobi was more than a politician, he was a man of many parts, whose managerial skills and experience are required at this critical period in our national life.
“Senator Ajimobi was a distinguished Nigerian, who bestrode the economic and political space of the country like a colossus. He made his mark in the corporate world before venturing into politics.
“As first elected Governor to serve two terms in Oyo State, his achievements will remain indelible in the annals of political history of that State and Nigeria as a whole.”
Seyi Makinde
“I was so sorry to hear the news of the passing away of the immediate past Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, which sad event took place earlier today.
“I cannot begin to imagine the pain the family must be going through at this time because of the loss of their patriarch. It is my prayer that God grants them all the strength to bear this great loss.
“I join the good people of Oyo State as we mourn the death of a statesman. I have directed that flags fly at half-mast tomorrow in honour of our brother, friend and illustrious son of Oyo State.
“Surely, he will be remembered for leaving a blueprint for some of the activities that our administration is now undertaking.
“The Oyo State Government will be extending to his family, all the courtesies deserving of his personage. May his soul rest in peace.”
