From Taiwo Oluwadare, Ibadan
Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, along with key political figures, security chiefs, business leaders, and other dignitaries, visited Oyo State Governor ‘Seyi Makinde on Thursday to offer condolences on the passing of his brother, Engr. Sunday Makinde.
The visitors, who arrived separately at the governor’s Ikolaba residence, included members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Working Committee, Oyo State Service Chiefs, the Board of Odu’a Investment Company, and the Director-General of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN), Charles Odii.
Chief Obasanjo, accompanied by the Director-General of the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Dr Simeon Ehui, arrived early in the morning to express his sympathies, urging the governor to remain strong in this difficult time.
Similarly, a delegation from the PDP NWC, led by Deputy National Chairman (South), Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, conveyed their condolences, describing Engr. Sunday Makinde as a man who lived a fulfilled life and left behind a legacy of successful family members.
“The loss is painful, but it is an inevitable part of life. Our thoughts and prayers are with Governor Makinde and his family,” Arapaja said.
Among the PDP officials in attendance were National Secretary Rt. Hon. SKE Udeokoye, National Publicity Secretary Barr. Debo Ologunagba, National Vice Chairman (South-East) High Chief Ali Odefa, Mr Daniel Wuyigikoro, and Mrs Amina Darisam.
The Oyo State Service Chiefs, led by Governor Makinde’s Special Adviser on Security, retired Commissioner of Police Fatai Owoseni, also visited to offer their support, encouraging the governor to find solace in the fact that his brother lived a meaningful life.
The Board of Odu’a Investment Company, led by Chairman Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, joined in the condolence visits, emphasising the importance of standing by the governor during this period of grief. Ashiru acknowledged the pain of losing a loved one and assured Governor Makinde of their support.
“We are here as partners and friends to console our brother during this difficult time. The late Engr. Makinde contributed meaningfully to his community, and we pray for his soul to rest in peace,” he stated.
Ashiru also took the opportunity to commend Governor Makinde for fostering an environment that attracts investments to Oyo State.
“In terms of investment, the governor has done exceptionally well. He understands that the government’s role is to create a conducive business environment, and he has been successful in doing so,” he added.
Other visitors included SMEDAN DG Charles Odii, the Sarkin Sasa and Chairman of the Council of Arewa Traditional Rulers in 17 Southern States, Alhaji Mallam Haruna Maiyasin (CON), the Board of the Oyo State Rule of Law Enforcement Authority led by Justice Aderonke Aderemi (rtd), South-West PDP Women Leader Alhaja Bosede Adedibu, and representatives from the Omituntun Oke Ogun group, led by Oyo AANFE Chairman Mr Ayo Olopoenia.
Governor Makinde expressed gratitude to all those who visited, appreciating their support and kind words during this challenging time.