Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun and his Ondo State counterpart, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, were among dignitaries who gathered at Abeokuta on Friday to bid farewell to Major General Ekundayo Opaleye (retd.) one-time military administrator of old Ondo State.
Also, the former governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun was present at the ceremony.
Opaleye, aged 77 died on November 18, 2023
. He was the Military Administrator of old Ondo State between 1986 and 1987.
Abiodun has however described the late soldier as a patriot, who epitomised courage, integrity, leadership, and commitment not just to the Nigerian Army but to the country at large.
The governor, who his deputy, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, represented, made this known on Friday during the burial ceremony of the late revered elder statesman, at the Green Legacy Resorts Hall, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library.
He said, “Your departure has left a vacuum not only in the lives of your immediate family but also the state.
“Even at retirement, you have continued to live a life of impact by playing a pivotal role in Owu Kingdom as Balogun serving alongside as a cabinet member of the Olowu in Council, and since I resumed office as governor, General Opaleye remained supportive of my administration by giving wise counsel where and when necessary.”
Abiodun expressed heartfelt condolences to the government and the people of the state to Opaleye’s widows, children, grandchildren and the extended family he left behind, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Speaking at the event, Aiyedatiwa described Opaleye as an exceptional administrator and exemplary leader whose contributions to the development of old Ondo State can never be forgotten.
