Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, at the weekend, visited the family of the late Ogun State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Barrister Olaniyi Ijalaye, who died in Abuja last week.
Abiodun, who spoke at the Ibadan family house of the Ijalayes, described the deceased as a forthright, honest, humble, dependable, and dedicated man who served his country meritoriously while alive.
The Governor said he and members of his cabinet received the news of Barrister Ijalaye’s demise with rude shock, noting, however, that he lived an impactful life worthy of emulation.
“Barrister Niyi was posted to Ogun State as the State Electoral Commissioner following his meritorious retirement from First Bank. This sad news is difficult for all those who knew him and even those who only associated with him,” he said.
Prince Abiodun mentioned that the late REC successfully supervised elections that saw people elected to various offices, adding that he was an uncompromising umpire who was fair to all.
“When things like this happen, we are tempted to question the Almighty God, but we are reminded not to grieve like the unbelievers, as God is a God of seasons: a season to be born and a season to depart this world,” he stated.
The governor said that although bad things also happen to good people, the family should take comfort in the fact that Barrister Ijalaye was a man of integrity who served his country with utmost dedication.
“I sympathize with the entire Ijalaye family. Indeed, Barrister Ijalaye was an exemplary figure of diligence, commitment, and honesty in public service.
“Though his death came as a rude shock to us in Ogun State, we take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life of integrity and indelible impact; may God rest his soul and protect those he left behind,” he added.
