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ALAO-AKALA: We’ve lost an icon, says ‘Eruobodo’
Astute businessman and politician, Dr. Olusola Ayandele popularly addressed as ‘Eruobodo’ by his numerous admirers, on Wednesday described the late former governor of Oyo state, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, as an evergreen political heavyweight and patriot whose transition to eternal glory has robbed Oyo state and Nigeria of many good things.
Alao-Akala, who served as deputy governor and later governor of Oyo state between 2003 and 2011, died in his Ogbomoso home in the early hours of Wednesday. He was aged 71.
Eruobodo, in a condolence message made available to journalists lamented the passage of the leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo state as he described the development as a collosal loss not only to the Pacesetter state but also to the Nigerian nation.
“The news of the death of Otunba Alao-Akala came with rude shock and utter disbelief as there was no report of ill-health or sickness about him. He was even present at the Fidau of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland last week where he was last seen in the public and nobody had an inkling that he was about to leave us. His death was one too many as it threw the whole country into mourning and regret.
“Otunba Alao-Akala, the distinct (Oyato) Governor as he was fondly called by his numerous fans and beneficiaries, did his best in terms of selfless service to God and humanity. He used all the opportunities that came his way to impart positively in the lives of his people and this explains why he enjoyed the love and confidence of his people until he breathed his last.
“Without mincing words, the death of the enigma called Otunba Alao-Akala has denied Oyo state and Nigeria the chance of benefitting from his wealth of experience as an administrator of enviable track record, colourful politicking and philanthropism. Many people would attest to the fact that he was able to transform lives while he also built an enduring legacy for himself as one who governed Oyo state successfully.
“Our sympathy and prayers are with his wives, children and other family members as well as the good people of Ogbomoso and the entire members of Oyo APC who have been thrown into mourning as a result of the death of this collusus. We pray God to grant him eternal rest and also give succour to the army of admirers, friends and supporters he left behind”, the statement said.
China has announced a sharp increase in tariffs on US imports, raising the rate from 34 percent to 84 percent, in response to new American trade measures that came into effect on Wednesday.
The decision, confirmed by China’s finance ministry, will take effect from 12:01 p.m. on Thursday. It follows the imposition of sweeping new US tariffs under President Donald Trump, including a hefty 104 percent duty on certain Chinese goods.
“The tariff escalation against China by the United States simply piles mistakes on top of mistakes and severely infringes on China’s legitimate rights and interests,” the ministry said in a strongly worded statement, warning of “firm and forceful” countermeasures.
Beijing has long opposed the increasing use of tariffs as a tool in trade disputes, and accused Washington of undermining the multilateral rules-based global trading system.
In a related move, China’s commerce ministry also announced it would blacklist six American artificial intelligence companies, including Shield AI Inc. and Sierra Nevada Corporation. The companies were accused of either supplying arms to Taiwan or collaborating with the island on military technology.
Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Oyo State Governor, Dr. Omololu Olunloyo, describing his death as a monumental loss to the people of Oyo State and Nigeria at large.
In a condolence message made available to the press on Sunday, in Ibadan by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker eulogised the late elder statesman as a distinguished scholar, consummate public administrator, and one of Nigeria’s most intellectually gifted leaders whose legacy would continue to inspire generations.
Dr. Olunloyo, who served as governor of Oyo State during the Second Republic, was reported dead at the age of 89. He was widely respected for his brilliance, administrative acumen, and unmatched depth in mathematics and public discourse.
Oseni noted that the late governor’s contributions to the development of Oyo State, particularly in the areas of education, governance, and intellectual engagement, are indelible footprints in the sands of time.
“We have lost a gem. Dr. Olunloyo was not just a leader, he was a father figure and a repository of wisdom. His demise is a personal loss to me and all lovers of progress and excellence in our society,” he stated.
While commiserating with the Olunloyo family, the people of Ibadan, and the entire Oyo State, he prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed soul and urged all to take solace in the rich and impactful life he lived.
Member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Chairman, House Committee on Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Aderemi Oseni has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Chief Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole and other members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) executives on their re-election.
Chief Ajewole was returned as the President-General of the apex Ibadan socio-cultural association, alongside other members of the executive council, who were all given the mandate to continue piloting the affairs of the association for another two-year term.
In a congratulatory message issued through his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, Oseni described the re-election of the Ajewole-led team as a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed in their leadership by the Ibadan indigenes at home and in the diaspora.
He commended the CCII leadership for its unwavering commitment to the progress, unity, and cultural advancement of Ibadanland while expressing optimism that the renewed mandate would further propel the association to greater heights.
“The re-election of Chief Ajewole and his team is not only a testament to their sterling performance over the last term but also an affirmation of their capacity to continue serving the interest of Ibadan indigenes. I extend my warmest congratulations and best wishes for a more impactful tenure,” he said.
The lawmaker further assured the CCII of his continued support for any initiative geared towards the development of Ibadanland and the preservation of its rich heritage.
The CCII is renowned for its pivotal role in mobilising Ibadan sons and daughters towards the socio-economic development of the65 ancient city and beyond.
