OGBOMOSO – A former governor of Oyo State, Adebayo Alao-Akala, has described the death of former Information Minister, Prof. Dora Akunyili, as a great loss to the nation.
He also expressed shock at the demise of the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Ado Bayero, saying his vacuum would be difficult to fill.
Alao-Akala, in a condolence message issued in Ogbomoso by his media aide, Mr Abraham Ojo, described the late Akunyili as a woman of substance who upheld excellence in public office.
“She did wonderfully well in her chosen career and in the various national assignments she undertook.
“The late Akunyili brought sanity into drug manufacturing and sales and this reduced drastically the existence of fake drugs in our society.
“This to a large extent saved many lives. She will be greatly missed and remembered for her excellence.
“I pray the God Almighty grant her eternal rest and the family as well as the nation the fortitude to bear the loss,” Alao-Akala was quoted as saying.
The former governor also described the late Bayero as an epitome of humility, saying he died when his fatherly role was most needed.
Alao-Akala said that Bayero was a highly respected and stood firm to protect the interests of the ordinary Nigerian throughout his reign.
“He is a royal father to all and the comforter and defender of the Talakawas. He will be missed for his fatherly role.
“It is my prayer the Almighty God grant him eternal rest and give the family, Kano people and Nigeria at large the fortitude to bear the loss,” he was quoted as saying. (NAN)