Chief Wole Oke, the minority leader of the Kwara State House of Assembly during the Second Republic, has passed away at the age of 78.
Oke, who held the title of Jagunmolu of Shao, reportedly died yesterday.
His death was confirmed to news outlets by a close associate and fellow former lawmaker, Hon. AbdulMumini Katibi. “Yes, Chief Wole Oke died in the early hours of Sunday.
Many have gathered at his residence in the Fate area of Ilorin to sign the condolence register,” Katibi stated.
Until his passing, Oke was a respected leader within the Elders Council of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kwara and was renowned for his dedication to community development.
In a heartfelt condolence message, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq expressed his sorrow over Oke’s death. He referred to Oke as a distinguished APC leader, a Second Republic lawmaker, and a dedicated progressive. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, the governor praised Oke as a great statesman and community leader who advocated for his beliefs through thoughtful dialogue and personal conviction.
“He will be sorely missed. He was a courageous yet calm individual who spoke truth to power. His positions on issues were always clear and forthright,” the governor added.
Read Also: First Lady Commits N1 Billion to Enhance Tuberculosis Fight
AbdulRazaq extended his condolences to the Ohoro of Shao, the deceased’s family, and members and leaders of the APC in Kwara State and Moro local government. He prayed for comfort for those mourning the loss of the late statesman.
Prince Sunday Fagbemi, the state chairman of the APC, described Oke as a rare gem. “Chief Wole Oke was a pillar of peace, wisdom, and progress, whose advice leaves an irreplaceable void in Kwara’s political landscape,” Fagbemi remarked.
He characterized Oke as an embodiment of honesty and a crucial member of the APC Elders’ Council, whose insights played a vital role during challenging times.
Alh Hameed Adio, the former chairman of the board of directors of Kwara State Television Service (KWTV), expressed his grief at Oke’s passing, calling it “sad, shocking, devastating, and absolutely depressing news.” “This marks the transition of a quintessential statesman, a committed community leader, a relentless advocate for the rights of his people, and a true patriot,” Adio stated.
