President Bola Tinubu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun and friends on Thursday, paid tributes to the late Sen. Solomon Ayodeji-Otegbola, celebrating his life and legacy as “a life well lived, a legacy of love.”
Sen. Ayodeji-Otegbola, who represented Ogun West in the Third Republic Senate, was also a former chairman of the federal housing authority and ex-Ogun PDP chairman.
He passed away on February 15, at the age of 92.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that the tributes poured in during the funeral service held at the African Church, Saint Paul’s Cathedral, Lagos East Diocese, Ilupeju.
The service, marked by praise and thanksgiving, honoured the late senator before his interment at Ikoyi Cemetery.
In a tribute signed by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu described the late senator as “one of Nigeria’s most distinguished statesmen.”
“Sen. Ayodeji-Otegbola was a man of immense dignity, principle, and unwavering dedication to public service.
“He was a respected legislator and a patriarch whose influence spanned generations.
“Nigeria has lost a patriot, the Awori nation has lost a guiding light, and I have lost a noble elder whose life embodied sacrifice,” the president said.
Gov. Abiodun described the funeral as a “send-off for a fulfilled and accomplished life.
“He was an illustrious son of Ogun. He left behind a legacy of excellence and professionalism in every aspect of his life.
“He served humanity with a deep sense of duty that touched countless lives. The Ogun government joins his family and friends in celebrating his life and bidding him farewell,” Abiodun said.
Obasanjo’s message delivered by his wife, Mrs Bola Obasanjo, said Ayodeji-Otegbola epitomised professionalism, excellence and uncommon dedication to service—to his family, community, nation and to God.
“As a politician, he gave his all toward the reconstruction of our political system and the consolidation of Nigeria’s democracy.
“His service as a senator between 1992 and 1993 earned him widespread admiration,” Obasanjo said.
Also speaking at the event, the primate of the African Church, Most Rev. Abbey Osunyande, explained any position attained in life was best used in service to humanity and to God.
“Sen. Ayodeji-Otegbola used his resources and influence to serve others.
“His humility and service as the ‘Asiwaju of Aworiland’ is a legacy worthy of emulation,” he said, praying for the peaceful repose of his soul.
In her remark at the event, the daughter of the Asiwaju of Aworiland, Mrs Fola Soyebo, said that her late father cherished hard work and education and ensured that his children toed that line.
“He was a loving father who sacrificed his pleasure to meet children and family needs.”
