Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State on Friday described late former Governor Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo as a great leader, a bridge, and a shepherd who played very important roles at different moments of Nigerian history.

He said history will never forget how Adebayo acted with moral courage and humility, making him a hero of the people and good governance.

“Today, I join our community to again commiserate with the family, associates, friends, and the entire people of Kwara State on the passing of statesman and leader, His Excellency Cornelius Adebayo, CON,” the governor said in Ilorin at the wake-keep ceremony for the late patriot, Chief Adebayo.

“His Excellency, Cornelius Adebayo (CON), was a great leader, a bridge, and a shepherd who played very important roles at different moments of our history.

“Whether as a former governor, NADECO chieftain, minister of the Federal Republic, or an Afenifere leader, history testifies that he acted with moral courage and humility. He was always a hero of the people, democracy, and good governance.”

The governor was represented at the event by his deputy, Elder Kayode Alabi.

“As we mourn his departure, we are reminded that life is a fleeting journey, and what matters is a legacy of serving God and humanity,” the governor stated.

Family and friends took turns to praise the deceased, acknowledging his virtues, exceptional roles in the family and community, and his service to humanity.

One of his children, Bimbo Adewoye, said her father had a very large heart and was passionate about God and his family.

“My father dedicated his life to God, his family, and humanity. He believed anywhere he found himself was God’s making. He loved the family and promoted unity among his children,” she said.

Top attendees included Kwara First Lady, Ambassador Prof. Olufolake AbdulRazaq; Senator Umar Sadiq (Kwara North); House of Representatives member, Raheem Tunji Ajulọ-opin; Chief Judge of Kwara State, Justice Abiodun Adebara; and cabinet members.

Also in attendance were the Commissioner of Police, CP Ojo Adekimi; former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola; former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Mohammed; NACCIMA President, Alhaji Jani Ibrahim; State APC Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi; Chairman, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Sen. Ibrahim Oloriegbe; the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu; and the Sòún of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afọlábí Ọláoyè Orumógege III, among other royal fathers and dignitaries.

Gov Abdulrazaq, Oyinlola, others attend ex-gov Adebayo’s wake keep