Former Vice Atiku Abubakar has expressed sadness over the death of the long reigning Soun of Ogbomosho land, Oba Oyewumi Oladunni Ajagungbade III.
The former Vice President, in a statement by his media office on Sunday, said that the news of the demise of the famous monarch early Sunday came with a rude shock, even when he died at the ripe age of 95 and 48 years reign on his traditional throne.
Atiku said that the late Soun was a colourful monarch whose reign impacted positively on Ogbomosho land in many remarkable ways.
“I join other friends and admirers of Ogbomosho land to mourn the transition of Oba Ajagungbade III. Although we are sad that his exit will deny us of his elderly counsels and admonitions, it is remarkable that the late king lived a life of accomplishments as a foremost businessman and a traditional ruler whose reign was remarkably outstanding.
“While I condole with his immediate family and the good people of Ogbomosho land, I also express my deepest condolences to the Oyo State government on the loss of a traditional ruler with towering credentials. I pray that God grants his soul a peaceful repose.”
Former Lagos State Governor and All Progressives Congress (APC) National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has commiserated with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, the people of Ogbomosoland and the immediate family of Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Oladunni Oyewunmi, Ajagungbade 111, over his demise.
He described Oba Oyewunmi as a highly revered traditional ruler who worked for peace, unity and development in Ogbomoso, Yorubaland and indeed in Nigeria.
He said in the condolence statement issued on Sunday by his Media Office in Lagos: “The Soun of Ogbomoso, His Royal Majesty, Oba Oladunni Oyewunmi Ajagungbade 111, had a remarkable reign, lasting 48 years.
“Bolstered by his business background, Kabiyesi had a deep passion for growth and development in Ogbomoso. It was, therefore, no surprise that commercial and business activities blossomed in the city during his time on the throne.
“As a first class traditional ruler, Kabiyesi also worked for peace and unity not only in Ogbomoso and Yorubaland, but also across the country.
“He was a true father of all. I had a personal relationship with Kabiyesi. He was a fountain of wisdom and intellect from whom I benefitted.
“We thank God that Kabiyesi lived to an advanced age of 95. His passing would be a big blow to Ayaba Olaronke Oyewunmi and Ayaba Olufemi Oyewunmi both of whom shared deep love with Kabiyesi and stood by him as he advanced in age.
“My condolences must go to the Ayabas, the children and other family members. I urge them to take heart and take solace in the good time they shared with Kabiyesi and in his glorious reign.
“I also commiserate with Governor Seyi Makinde, the Oyo State Government and the good people of Ogbomosoland for the loss of this illustrious Oba. May Almighty Allah grant Kabiyesi Aljanna Firdaus. Amin”.
The Chief Whip of the Senate, Senator Orji Kalu, described the demise of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Ajagungbade III as a huge loss to the country.
Kalu, in a condolence message issued on Sunday in Abuja, described the late monarch as an epitome of peace and humility.
The former governor of Abia acknowledged the contributions of Oba Oyewumi to nation building in various capacities.
Kalu stressed that the late traditional ruler was a role model for his contemporaries, adding that he was forthright, kind-hearted, humble and courageous.
He conveyed his condolences to the people of Ogbomosoland especially members of the royal family.
“I received with a heavy heart the news of the demise of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III, who passed at the age of 95.
“The late monarch was a blessing to Ogbomoso, Oyo State and Nigeria in general.
“He played leading roles in promoting peace and unity across the country.
“The late traditional ruler was respected across the country in view of his personal and leadership attributes.
“He was a compassionate leader and selfless statesman.
“His counsel on national issues will be greatly missed.
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“Kabiyesi’s worthy legacies will continue to speak for him.
“I urge the Oyewumi family to sustain the good deeds of their late patriarch”.
Kalu prayed to Allah to grant the late monarch Al-Jannah Firdaus.
Born on May 27, 1926 to the Gbagun Ruling House of Royal family of Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Oyewumi’s reign brought robust development to Ogbomoso and environs.
In 1995, Oba Oyewumi served as Chairman, Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs for a term of two years.
He was the pioneer Chancellor, Plateau State University (PLASU), Bokkos, Plateau State.
