Gov Abiodun, Amosun Mourn Late Gen Opaleye
- Describe his death as ‘huge loss’ to Nigeria
The Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, and his predecessor in office, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, have described the death of the former Military Governor of old Ondo State, Major General Ekundayo Babakayode Opaleye (rtd), as a huge loss to the state and Nigeria in general.
They noted that he was a patriotic military officer whose dedication to duty as an administrator will always be remembered.
Governor Abiodun said; “Major General Opaleye’s contribution to our nation, particularly during his tenure as the military governor, will always be remembered. His dedication and service to the people of old Ondo State will forever be cherished. His sudden demise is a great loss to the entire country.
“We stand in solidarity with the bereaved family, offering our support and prayers as they navigate through this painful period. May they find strength and solace in the memories shared with Major General Opaleye. Our thoughts and prayers are with them”.
On his part, Senator Amosun described Opaleye, who until his death, was the Balogun of Erunmu, Owu, Abeokuta, as an illustrious son of Owu Kingdom in Egbaland, Senator Amosun said he was a very selfless military officer who served the country with passion and dedication.
The former Governor said; “I mourn, yet again, the passing of another illustrious son of Owu Kingdom and a patriotic military officer who served as Governor of old Ondo State, Major General Ekundayo Opaleye (Rtd) earlier today, Saturday, 18 November 2023.
“Major General Opaleye will be remembered for his selfless service in the Nigerian Army, where he undertook several military assignments in Nigeria and Africa, including serving as Corps Commander of the Nigerian Army Engineers, and Commander of the OAU Neutral Military Organization Group (NMOG), in Rwanda, among others, culminating in his elevation to the rank of Major General.
“Beyond his meritorious career in the military, Major General Ekundayo Opaleye, as the Balogun of Erunmu Owu, was unwaveringly committed to the development of Owu kingdom, Egbaland, and Ogun State.
“I recall how he successfully chaired the planning committee for the coronation ceremony of our Kabiyesi, the Olowu of Owu, Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola in 2022. Indeed, Owu kingdom and Ogun State have lost an illustrious son.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children, grandchildren, and the entire family he left behind as they mourn his passing. I also commiserate with Kabiyesi, the Olowu of Owu, the Balogun of Owu, and the Owu Traditional Council of Chiefs, as well as his primary constituency, the Nigerian military over his demise.
“May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest and give his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss”.
Opaleye reportedly died of a heart attack on Saturday morning at his GRA, Ibara residence, Abeokuta. As a Military Governor from August 1986 to 1987 during the General Ibrahim Babangida-led regime, Opaleye took over from late Admiral Mike Akhigbe before handing over to Commodore Bode George.
