The Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State, Mr. Paul Omotosho, is dead.
According to a family member who pleaded anonymity, Omotosho died in the early hours of yesterday after a brief illness.
The APC chairman, the source said, attended political meetings on Monday.
“He reportedly complained of feeling feverish on Tuesday and was taken to a government hospital in Ado-Ekiti, where he later died,” he said.
Ekiti State caucus in the House of Representatives has described the late chairman of APC in the state as a bridge builder, whose leadership style led to the victory of the party in the state.
In a statement signed by Leader of the caucus, Olufemi Bamishile, the lawmakers said the sudden death of the chairman was a big loss to the party in particular and Ekiti State in general.
The statement said: “Ekiti State Caucus in the House of Representatives is deeply saddened by the passing on of Paul Omotosho, the chairman of Ekiti State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“His sudden death has left a void in the hearts of all Ekiti members of the House of Representatives, who were all elected on the platform of the APC. His leadership was marked by dedication to the APC and efforts to advance the peace, progress and prosperity of Ekiti State.
“Under his stewardship, APC in Ekiti State achieved the historic feat of succeeding itself as the ruling party in the 2022 governorship election – the first time a back-to-back victory for a party in the political history of Ekiti State was recorded.
“Omotosho’s leadership acumen and visionary leadership contributed to the internal cohesion in the party. He was a bridge builder between the younger and older generations.
“Omotosho’s inclusive leadership style ensured that every member’s voice was heard and valued. His integrity, compassion and commitment to the ideals of our party were truly inspiring.”
Mourners, including Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, have condoled with the family of the late Omotosho.
The deceased, a politician and lawyer, believed to be in his 60’s, reportedly died after a brief illness at an undisclosed medical facility in Ado-Ekiti
Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, said he was shocked and devastated by the news of the demise of the party chairman.
The governor, who said he was yet to come to terms with the death of the APC chairman, described Omotosho as a dependable brother and ally.
He said the deceased excelled in the previous public offices held, including special adviser on legal matters, special adviser on political matters and commissioner.
Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, also paid tribute to Omotosho.
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“On behalf of the government and people of the state, I express condolences to the immediate family of our late chairman and the people of Imesi Ekiti and the entire members of APC.
“Our prayers and thoughts are with the family of the deceased. May God grant them and everyone of us the fortitude to bear this great loss. May God grant our dear departed brother eternal rest,” the statement added.
Ekiti House of Assembly has described as shocking the death of Omotosho.
A statement by the spokesperson for assembly, Mr. Babatunde Oke, quoted Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye, as saying the sad news of the departure of Omotosho was received with shock and grief.
Aribasoye described Omotoso as an exceptional statesman, who made indelible marks in the growth and development of Ekiti in capacities.
“Our heartfelt condolences go to Oba Festus Olatunde, the Olaibiyemi II, the Onimesi of Imesi-Ekiti, the progressives family, the government and people of Ekiti, as well as the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).”
Others who expressed condolences include Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Habbibat Adubiaro and a chieftain of the APC in Ekiti State, Dr. Olusegun Osinkolu.