Aregbesola mourns Gen. Adebayo

Gov. Rauf Aregbesola of Osun on Thursday said the death of retired Gen. Adeyinka Adebayo, the former Military Governor of defunct Western Region, had robbed Nigeria, especially Yoruba race, of a patriotic elder statesman.

Aregbesola, who made this known in a condolence message by his media aide, Mr Semiu Okanlawon, in Osogbo said he joined other well-meaning Nigerians in commiserating with the family of the deceased who was the President of the socio-political group, Yoruba Council of Elders (YCE).

“General Adeyinka Adebayo served his fatherland well. He was a fine officer of the Nigerian Army and did his best in all the capacities where he served.

“The history of our country is incomplete without mention of this fine officer.”

Recalling Adebayo’s interests in the growth and the development of the Yoruba race, Aregbesola, said the former President of the YCE stopped at nothing to ensure the unity and progress of the Yoruba people.

“We receive with heavy heart the death of one of Nigeria’s finest officers of the Nigerian Army, who fought for the unity of nation.

“No doubt, he was a soldier of repute and commander of men.

“He distinguished himself in his chosen profession both at home and abroad.

“The history of post-independence Nigeria and the crises that threatened the young nation’s existence will be incomplete without a chapter for this courageous soldier,” Aregbesola said.

The late retired general died on Wednesday in lagos at the age of 89.

Born on March 9, 1928 in Iyin-Ekiti in Ekiti, Adebayo was a Military governor, Western Nigeria between 1966 and 1971.