Saraki Condoles with Kwarans over Former Dep Gov’s Death

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

The immediate-past President of the Senate, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has commiserated with the people of Kwara State over the passing away of Chief Joel Ogundeji, who served as the deputy governor of the state between 2003 and 2011.

Saraki, in whose administration as governor of the state Ogundeji served as deputy governor, described the death of the late politician, civil servant and educationist as a great loss to the state.

In a statement issued in Ilorin yesterday and signed by Saraki’s aide, Mr.

Olu Onemola, and made available to journalists, stated that the death of Ogundeji at this time when the wisdom and experience of senior stakeholders are needed to steer the ship of the state, was a great loss.

The statement said: “I am extremely sad and heartbroken to learn about the passing of Chief Joel Ogundeji, who served as the state deputy governor in the eight years of my tenure as the governor of Kwara State.

“Throughout his life, which was dedicated to the service of his community, our state and the country, Ogundeji was a steadfast, reliable and experienced leader and educator, whose commitment to the development of our state and its people was undeniable in both his words and action.

“During our time in the Government House, Ogundeji’s advice, particularly in dealing with issues concerning the bureaucracy, education sector, and traditional institutions were invaluable.

“He was also a diligent and loyal deputy, who, despite his age, kept up with the fast-pace with which the administration moved in tackling the challenges of the time.

“As we mourn the passing of this great Kwaran, I pray that Almighty God will comfort his wife, Mrs. Comfort Ogundeji, and children; the people of Iwo in Isin LGA, and the entire government and people of Kwara State. He will be dearly missed.”

Following Saraki’s election as the candidate of the PDP in the 2003 gubernatorial election, Ogundeji was nominated to run alongside Saraki as his deputy. Ogundeji, who was a devout Christian and a party leader from Iwo, in Isin LGA, was also a senior education officer in four post-primary educational institutions between 1970 and 1995.

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