Seyi Makinde directs flags to fly at half-mast on Friday to mourn Ajimobi’s death

The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has expressed sadness over the demise of the immediate past governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi.

Mr Makinde, in a condolence message to the Ajimobi family and the good people of Oyo State, directed that the state’s flag fly at half-mast on Friday.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported his death at a private hospital in Lagos after spending weeks in intensive care for coronavirus complications, according to Akin Alabi, a federal lawmaker and political associate of the former governor’s.

He was 70.

Mr Ajimobi’s passing came a week after he was rumoured to have died at the same private hospital. That rumour turned to be false.

According to the condolence message, he said: “I was so sorry to hear the news of the passing away of the immediate past Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, which sad event took place earlier today.

“I cannot begin to imagine the pain the family must be going through at this time because of the loss of their patriarch. It is my prayer that God grants them all the strength to bear this great loss.

“I join the good people of Oyo State as we mourn the death of a statesman. I have directed that flags fly at half-mast tomorrow in honour of our brother, friend and illustrious son of Oyo State.

“Surely, he will be remembered for leaving a blueprint for some of the activities that our administration is now undertaking.

“The Oyo State Government will be extending to his family, all the courtesies deserving of his personage. May his soul rest in peace.”