By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
Prominent Nigerians continued to mourn the passing away of elder statesman and stalwart of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief (Alhaji) Yekini Adeojo.
Former Minister of State, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, described his death as a rude shock and “the fall of a big tree that shakes the earth.”
Oloye Akinjide, in a statement she personally signed and made available to journalists on Friday, April 4, stated that: “Chief Yekini Ayoade Adeojo would sorely be missed for his political acumen and leadership savvy.
“As a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), he left no stone unturned to co-build a party that is strong and efficient; beyond this, his business acumen and other giants strides would be too difficult to replace.
“He was a father figure whose princely advice I sought on different occasions.
“As a frontline religious leader, the Seriki Adinni of Yorubaland, he has, indeed, left an indelible mark on the sands of time.
“Great people don’t die, as death is not the end of existence. His legacies will surely live on.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family members, the good people of Oyo State and his business, religion and political associates.
“I pray God in His infinite mercy grants him a permanent place in paradise and give us all the fortitude to bear the great loss.”
On his part, Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, described Alhaji Adeojo as one of the last men standing, saying his death marked the end of a glorious political era.
Governor Makinde expressed condolences to the family of Adeojo, who was the PDP governorship standard bearer in the 1999 elections, praying to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the exit of their patriarch.
The governor also commiserated with the PDP family in Oyo State.
He said: “I have just been informed about the passing of our father, Pa Yekini Adeojo.
“I condole with the family of Alhaji Adeojo, the PDP in Oyo State and the good people of the state over the demise of a man most of us grew up to know as an icon and patriot.
“Baba’s death marks the end of a glorious political era, as he was one of the last great men standing in the state as a political, community and religious leader.
“He will be greatly missed by the PDP family, where he has been our leader and icon for over two decades.
“His death will also leave a vacuum in our great state and Nigeria, because Baba gave his best to serving our state and nation.
“It is my prayer that God will grant repose to his soul, grant him Aljanah Firdaus and uphold the family he left behind.”
Also contributing, the Oyo State chapter of PDP expressed sadness over the death.
The party reacted to the politician’s death in a statement by its Acting Publicity Secretary, Michael Ogunsina.
“With deep sorrow and a profound sense of loss, the Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) announces the passing of one of our most revered leaders and statesmen, Chief Yekini Adeojo, who departed this world on Friday, April 4.
“Chief Adeojo was an elder statesman, a political colossus, and a pillar of democracy in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
“As the first PDP gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, a former member of the PDP Board of Trustees, and a key mentor to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, he played a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape of our state and the nation.
“Beyond his political contributions, Chief Adeojo was a distinguished religious leader, serving as the Seriki Adinni of Yoruba Muslims, a role in which he demonstrated immense commitment to the propagation of peace, unity, and religious harmony.
“His influence extended beyond politics and religion into philanthropy, community development, and the upliftment of countless individuals.
“His legacy continues through his children, including Hon. Sheriff Adeojo, the Executive Chairman of Ido Local Government; and Hon. Elias Adeojo, the Chairman of the Oyo State Water Corporation; and so many other great kids that came from his loins.
“His passing is a monumental loss to his family, the PDP, Oyo State, and Nigeria as a whole.
“In honour of his immense contributions, the Oyo State PDP directs that all party flags be flown at half-mast across the state, as we mourn this irreplaceable loss.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, associates, and the entire people of Oyo State. We pray that Almighty Allah forgives his shortcomings and grants him Aljannah Firdaus,” the party said.
Adeojo reportedly died in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.
He was a former Deputy National Chairman (South) of PDP.
He was also a notable Ibadan traditional title holder.
