Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, has described the death of Prince Sulaiman Ajibola Afonja as shocking and a huge loss to Nigeria.
The foremost traditional ruler, who is also the Vice Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs, stated this in a press release to condole with the family of the deceased.
Prince Afonja, a former Secretary (Minister) of Labour and Productivity and former chairman of the First Bank of Nigeria, died at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan, on Sunday night, aged 82.
The Olugbon stated in the release that he received the news of the demise of Prince Afonja, who he describes bed as his close associate, with shock.
The traditional ruler also described the deceased as a man with great ideas and who was passionate about the development of Oyo State, Nigeria and the people.
“A close associate and a man who distinguished himself as a patriotic indigene of Oyo State and citizen of Nigeria, Prince Afonja was a man of great character, an astute business man and a leader with great passion for the growth of the country.
“We used to share thoughts on issues affecting our dear country and Oyo State in particular.
“He always came up with novel ideas that could help transform how bigger and better impacts can be made through improved processes. His ideas confirmed his genuine love for Nigeria.
“I remember our last discussion which was based on his project on revenue generation for Nigeria Customs Service. He opined that there were better ways the Service could improve revenue generation.
“Prince Afonja believed in President Bola Tinubu’s leadership. We also spoke about how Governor Seyi Makinde’s style is improving the lot of Oyo State.
“I have known him for close to 30 years now, and he has remained the same credible, dependable and creative leader whose passion for Nigeria is second to none.
“His death is a huge loss to Nigeria and Oyo State. I will forever remember his ideology, advice and good thoughts for Oyo State and Nigeria.
“I pray God to comfort his family, the government and good people of Oyo State,” the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon stated in the press release.
