By Bisi Oladele, Ibadan
THE All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has described the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi as a leader, who left solid legacies for the benefit of unborn generations of Oyo State indigenes and residents.
Also yesterday, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, described the late former governor as a committed progressive, who set the state on the path of modern development.
The party and Dare spoke in statements marking Ajimobi’s first year Fidau, which commenced in Ibadan yesterday.
Ajimobi, who was the only governor in the state re-elected for a second term in office, died in June 25, last year.
In the party’s statement by Olawale Sadare, the Special Assistant on Media to the state caretaker chairman, Chief Akin Oke, APC said the late former governor’s legacies remain indelible in the heart of the people.
The statement reads: “As family members, friends and political associates mark the first anniversary of the death of the immediate past governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, the APC has reiterated that the memory and legacy of the late political leader would remain indelible in the hearts of the people of the society, who value quality leadership, good governance and rare virtues in man.
“The news of Senator Ajimobi’s death came on June 25, 2020, following reported complications arising from Covid-19 infection. The Aare of Ibadanland, who was the first person to have governed Oyo State for an unprecedented two terms as a civilian, died at the age of 70 years. At the time of his death, he was the Deputy National Chairman (South) of the APC.
“The last one year has been challenging in view of the absence of Senator Ajimobi, who had emerged as the pillar and rallying-point of the APC not only in the Southwest but across Nigeria and even beyond.
“Our late leader (Sen. Ajimobi) used the eight-year period of his reign as the Executive Governor of the Pacesetter State to improve on the legacy of purposeful governance and decent politicking which he inherited from Chief Obafemi Awolowo, Chief Bola Ige and Alhaji Lam Adesina. He did not only pick up the legacy as he polished and repositioned it for the benefit of present and forthcoming generations.”
Dare, in his own statement, said: “Governor Ajimobi was undoubtedly a core progressive in words and deeds. While in office, he chose the road less travelled, one that set Oyo State on the path of progressive development. Now, many people know better. The difference is clear. He was undeterred, focused and committed to expanding the frontiers of good governance.
“The Oyo State people will remain appreciative of the leadership and stewardship of the former Governor, Ajimobi, particularly in the area of security and infrastructural development.
“Ajimobi’s people-orientation and devotion saw him working not only to create a safe and conducive environment for businesses, individual enterprise and political activities but also made Oyo State attractive and relevant.”
The minister urged Oyo State APC members to close ranks and organise to deliver the people of the state from the clutches of the current political retrogression into the hands of progressive governance, one which late Governor Ajimobi birthed in the state.
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