Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, and the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, have mourned the passing of Ambassador Ibironke Adefope, a former Nigerian High Commissioner to Zambia and a respected member of the Oyo State Elders’ Council.
Governor Makinde described the late Adefope as an Amazon and an icon whose contributions to the state and country were indelible.
He noted that her death is a significant loss to Oyo State, stating that the news came as a shock.
“The news of the death of our Mama, Ambassador Ibironke Adefope, came to me as a rude shock, however, we must submit to the will of God, who gives and takes life,” Makinde said.
Makinde praised her lifetime of service, highlighting her continuation of the legacy left by her grandfather, Chief Meredith Adisa Akinloye.
“Mama was a great Amazon and an icon, who made immense contributions to the development and progress of Oyo State and Nigeria.
“She sustained the great legacy she inherited and also made her marks on the sand of time,” he added.
The governor expressed his condolences to the Eegunjenmi Family of Itutaba, Oje, Ibadan, the family of Chief Akinloye, her immediate family, and members of the Oyo State Elders’ Council.
Also, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin expressed profound sorrow over Adefope’s demise, describing her as a distinguished stateswoman and a beacon of excellence.
“Ambassador Ibironke Adefope was a pillar of wisdom and a beacon of excellence. Her impact on Oyo State and Nigeria at large cannot be overstated.
“She dedicated her life to the service of our great nation, upholding values of integrity, diligence, and patriotism,” the Speaker said.
Ogundoyin commiserated with Governor Makinde, the Oyo State Elders’ Council, and the bereaved family, urging them to find comfort in her remarkable legacy.
“Mama Adefope embodied the spirit of selfless service and leadership, sustaining the heritage of Chief Meredith Adisa Akinloye, while making indelible marks of her own. Her wisdom and contributions will be dearly missed,” he added.
Westernmirror.com.ng reports that Ambassador Adefope, who also served as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Malawi, passed away at the age of 73. She is remembered for her exemplary public service and unwavering commitment to national development.