Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, former Governor of Kwara State and a distinguished Nigerian statesman, passed away yesterday at the age of 84 in an Abuja hospital after a brief illness. Born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Adebayo’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to public service, progressive politics, and the defense of democratic ideals, leaving behind a significant legacy that has drawn tributes from across the nation.

An academic by background, Chief Adebayo served as a lecturer at institutions like the then University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) and the Kwara State College of Technology (now Kwara State Polytechnic), Ilorin. His foray into public service saw him as Commissioner for Education in Kwara State in the late 1970s, a period during which the University of Ilorin was taking shape, benefiting from his support and contributions.

Chief Adebayo rose to national prominence in the Second Republic, serving as a Senator under the banner of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), led by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. His political pedigree as a progressive politician shone brightly in 1983 when he caused an electoral upset to become the second elected civilian governor of the old Kwara State. However, his tenure was cut short by a military coup on December 31, 1983.

During Nigeria’s most challenging political moments, particularly after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, Chief Adebayo demonstrated immense courage and steadfastness. A member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), he was among the few leaders who cast aside personal comfort to stand firmly in defense of democracy and the ideals of justice, fairness, and equity. This commitment led him to spend several years in exile in Canada, a period that tested his resilience and conviction, during which he worked closely with President Bola Tinubu.

Upon Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999, Adebayo continued to play pivotal roles in national development. He served as the Minister of Communications between 2003 and 2007 and later as Minister of Transportation. His ministerial years were characterized by patriotism and a deep commitment to the progress of Kwara State and the Yoruba race. Within the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, he was regarded as a voice of reason and a stabilizing influence during critical engagements and internal debates.

Tributes have poured in from prominent figures, mourning the loss of a revered statesman. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed profound sadness, describing Chief Adebayo as a “true statesman” whose life was marked by integrity, courage, and unwavering devotion to public service and progressive politics. He hailed him as a “strong voice and a leading light in Nigeria’s political firmament,” affirming that his contributions to Nigeria’s journey will never be forgotten.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq also mourned the former governor, calling him an “all-time patriot, statesman, and progressive who represented great ideals and fought for good causes throughout his lifetime.” Governor AbdulRazaq extended heartfelt condolences to the family, noting that Adebayo left a fine legacy as a democrat who stood up at critical moments of history.

Senator Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) and Senator Oyelola Ashiru (Kwara South) both described Adebayo’s death as a great loss to Kwara State and Nigeria. Mustapha acknowledged his immense contributions to governance and national development, while Ashiru lauded him as a revered lecturer, courageous patriot, and a symbol of principled politics who taught that Kwara State belongs to all, irrespective of background.

Former Senate President and ex-governor of Kwara State, Dr. Bukola Saraki, remembered Chief Adebayo as a principled leader and a man of integrity, a towering figure in Nigeria’s political history who distinguished himself with courage and unwavering dedication to high ethics and good governance. Saraki emphasized his role on the frontline of the struggle against military rule.

The Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, described Adebayo as an administrator par excellence and elder statesman, noting his significant contributions to the state’s development during his short tenure as governor. University of Ilorin Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wahab Egbewole, SAN, also expressed sorrow, calling his death the end of a remarkable era in public service and recalling his support for the university’s establishment.

Chief Cornelius Adebayo is remembered not only for his political service but also for the personal integrity and intellectual rigor he brought to every position he occupied. His legacy of impeccable service and commitment to democratic ideals continues to inspire generations.