The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State has described the passing of its Chairman, Barrister Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu who died at the age of 61 as a devastating blow and a colossal loss, not only to the party but the entire country.

LEADERSHIP reports that the Otu-born lawyer died in the late hours of Sunday in the United States where he had been receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness since November 2023 even as kept in touch with friends, associates and most Oyo APC stakeholders until his passage on Sunday.

In a statement issued on Monday made available to journalists in Ibadan, APC Publicity Secretary in the state, Olawale Sadare expressed utmost shock and disbelief over the transition of Omodewu who served in various ministries as a Commissioner between 2011 and 2019 in the two-term administration of late former Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

“A big Iroko has fallen and a big vacuum has surfaced in our Party (APC). Our late chairman was an epitome of humility, kindness and selflessness. He emerged as the state chairman at a turbulent period and he did his best to stabilise the party. It is even regrettable he transited at this time when his efforts on total reconciliation have begun to yield full results as desired.

“While we commiserate with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, our National Chairman and the entire APC faithful in Nigeria, we pray God to grant him eternal rest and give members of his immediate family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss,” Oyo APC stated.

Meanwhile, a chieftain of the party in the state, Engr. Kazeem Kolawole Raji has reacted to the demise of Chief Omodewu with profound sadness.

KK Raji, as he is fondly called, in statement sent to LEADERSHIP on Monday said, “Omodewu’s dedication and service to Oyo State were evident throughout his distinguished career, notably during his tenure as Commissioner for Lands under the administration of the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi.

“His commitment to the development and progress of our beloved state has left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of working with him and benefiting from his leadership.”

Consoling the family of the departed, Raji stressed, “We understand that words cannot fully capture the depth of your loss, but we hope you find comfort in the legacy of excellence and integrity he has left behind. His contributions to our community will be remembered and honored for years to come.

“Chief Omodewu was a pillar of strength and a guiding light within our political landscape. His leadership, vision, and unwavering dedication to the party and the state will continue to inspire us all.”

He urged the APC faithful and the entire state to seize the grieving period in coming together “to celebrate the life of a remarkable leader who dedicated his life to the service of others. May we find solace in the memories we shared with him and strive to uphold the values he championed.”