The National Coordinator, New Nigeria Movement (NNM), Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim Ajia, has expressed grief over the demise of the former Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Chief Joel Afolabi Ogundeji.
He explained that a cursory look at the trajectory of life of the erstwhile deputy governor showed that he was a sage among his contemporaries and humility personified.
In his condolence message to the people of Iwo-Isin, Isin Local Government Area of the state where Chief Ogundeji hailed from, Ajia said the ex-number two citizen would be remembered for his self services as a teacher, administrator and invaluable contributions to the growth and development of Kwara as a deputy governor.
He stated that his meetings with the former deputy governor during his lifetime attested to his erudition and modesty, adding that this further endeared him to his approach to issues.
The NNM National Coordinator, who was a governorship aspirant in 2019 general elections in Kwara State, said he was convinced that Chief Ogundeji had etched his footprints in the sands of time and would be sorely missed at this critical moment that his wise counsel was required to set our society on a glorious path.
Ajia said, “I received with utter shock the transition of our father and former deputy governor of Kwara State, Chief Joel Afolabi Ogundeji. He was very kind and gentleman to the core.
“A cursory look at the trajectory of his life showed that he was a sage among his contemporaries and humility personified. This was somebody with colossal experience as a teacher, administrator and deputy governor. This is a rare opportunity. Only the chosen among the mortals could be so fortunate to be elevated to such exalted position.
“I’m convinced beyond any doubt that the passing away of Chief Ogundeji in this critical moment that his wise counsel and experience were needed, was a big blow to all of us.
“Even in death, we appreciate him for his invaluable contributions to the growth and development of Kwara State. He would sorely be missed now especially being of the older politician that has yielded to our call and agreed to undertake advisory role towards the emergence of young leaders come 2023 election .
“I therefore use this medium to condole the immediate family of Chief Ogundeji, the people of Iwo-Isin, Isin Local Government Area and Kwara State as a whole I beseech the Almighty God to comfort us in this trying time”.
