The general sadness and regret which heralded the announcement of the death of former governor of Oyo state, Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, on Wednesday have left many people, including the Caretaker Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in the state, Chief Akin Oke, in shock and lamentation as eminent personalities, friends and supporters of the deceased continue to mourn the deceased political figure.
Oke, in a statement issued on his behalf on Wednesday by his media aide, Olawale Sadare, expressed rude shock over the sudden death of Alao-Akala who, according to him, was a big Iroko tree under which many people got cover, succour and comfort.
“As we speak, Chief Akin Oke is yet to come to terms with the reality of Otunba Alao-Akala’s transition as journalists who called to obtain his reaction to the unpleasant development, through phone conversation, could not get him to speak a word even though he picked some of his calls. Baba Oke is heart-broken and sad at the moment.
“Apart from being a strong leader of the APC in the state, Chief Akala was a brother to Oyo APC boss since they were from the same place in Ogbomoso. The late former governor did so much for his hometown and Oyo state, in general, when he was in power and, as a result of this, he was able to register his image in the hearts of his people including Chief Oke.
“For us to lose an enigma like Alao-Akala, this time, is devastating and regrettable because we had hoped to get much more from him as an experienced political leader, astute administrator and patriot who never abdicated his responsibilities when it came to serving his people and the society. He was generous to a fault and he used his position and influence to transform the lives of many people who he came across during his time in police service as well as in his social and political life.
“The name, Adebayo Alao-Akala, will remain indelible in the anal of history because the former governor will forever be remembered for his selflessness, benevolence and good spirit. We therefore pray God Almighty to grant him eternal rest and also provide his wife, children and other family members as well as leaders and members of Oyo APC the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss”. Sadare stated.
