‘He was an exemplary leader’ — Fayemi pays tribute to late Olubadan

Kayode Fayemi, former governor of Ekiti, has mourned the death of Olalekan Balogun, the 42nd Olubadan of Ibadan.

Balogun died on Thursday evening at the age of 81.

In a statement issued by his media office, Fayemi said the late monarch was committed to the welfare of his people.

The former governor said the late Olubadan lived an exemplary life and will be missed by the people of the state.

“I received the news of the death of Oba Lekan Balogun, Alli Okunmade II, the Olubadan of Ibadanland with sadness,” the statement reads.

“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, friends, the Olubadan in Council, the Oyo State Government, and the entire Ibadan community on the death of this great leader and custodian of his people’s heritage.

“Kabiyesi was an exemplary leader whose reign was marked by wisdom, grace, and devotion to his people, and his contributions to the development of Ibadan and Oyo State in general cannot be overstated.

“As we mourn his passing, let us also celebrate his legacy of leadership and public service, as well as the profound impact he had on the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

“On behalf of my wife, Bisi, and the rest of our family, I extend my condolences to the people of Ibadan, as well as the government and people of Oyo State, on this tragic loss.

“May the good Lord grant the departed monarch eternal rest and give his family the strength to bear the irreplaceable loss.”

Fayemi described the king’s death as the end of a great and true leader whose dedication to his people’s well-being and progress was unparalleled.