Oba Francis Olushola Alao
The Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, and
Vice Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Francis Olusola Alao has described the death of Prince Ajibola Afonja as shocking and devastating.
The monarch expressed his grief in a statement obtained by westernmirror.com.ng on Tuesday evening.
Oba Francis also described the deceased, who was a former minister of Labour and Productivity, as well as former chairman of First Bank Plc. as a close associate and a man who distinguished himself as a patriotic son of Oyo State.
He noted that he and the deceased used to share thoughts on issues affecting the state and the country while he was alive and prayed God to grant him passing into eternal rest.
While praying God to grant the deceased family and loved ones the fortitude to bear the pain of his demise, Oba Francis said: “I received the news of the demise of Prince Ajibola Afonja with shock.
“A close associate and a man who distinguished himself as a patriotic indigene of Oyo State and citizen of Nigeria, Prince Afonja was a man of great character, an astute business man, and a leader with great passion for the growth of the country.
“We used to share thoughts on issues affecting our dear country and Oyo State in particular.
“His always came up with novel ideas that could help transform how bigger and better impacts can be made through improved processes. His ideas confirmed his genuine love for Nigeria.
“I remember our last discussion which was based on his project on revenue generation for Nigeria Customs Service.
“He opined that there were better ways the Service could improve revenue generation.
“Prince Afonja believed in President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
“We also spoke about how Governor Seyi Makinde’s style is improving the lot of Oyo State.
“I’ve known him for close to 30 years now, and he has remained the same credible, dependable and creative leader whose passion for Nigeria is second to none.
“His death is a huge loss to Nigeria and Oyo State.
“I will forever remember his ideology, advice and good thoughts for Oyo State and Nigeria.”
“I pray God to comfort his family, the government and good people of Oyo State.