By Dayo Johnson, Akure

Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, of Ondo state has described  late former Military governor of the state ,Major General Ekundayo Opaleye, as an exceptional administrator and exemplary leader whose contributions to the development of old Ondo State can never be forgotten.

Aiyedatiwa, who was represented at the funeral event in Abeokuta, Ogun state by his Deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, said the late military administrator of Ondo State was a dutiful soldier who served the country meritoriously.

According to him, “Listening attentively to the tributes given by all the various groups here present, I cannot but conclude that Major General Opaleye was a total man who excelled in all spheres of life.

“He was a responsible and committed father, highly revered elderstatemen and an illustrious son of Ogun state.”

Aiyedatiwa recalled the roles Opaleye played while he was at the helms of affairs in Ondo state between 1986 and 1987.

“In Ondo state, we know him as a very thorough and articulate administrator who has left an indelible mark on the sands of time.

“I recall he was the one who introduced the ‘due process’ in the operations of government in the then old Ondo state – a feat that will be remembered by generations yet unborn,” the Governor said.

The governor described the late General as a steadfast Christian who demonstrated his faith in God at all times and a complete gentleman soldier who had high regard for the Yoruba tradition and the entire black race.

“As testified by one of his close friends here, General Opaleye was, no doubt, a devout Christian who until he took his last breath, still proclaimed Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal saviour.

“He also held the traditional institution in high esteem during his tenure as military administrator of Ondo state.

“Though his demise is painful but we are consoled by the fact he lived a life of purpose.

” On behalf of government and people of Ondo state, I wish to commiserate with the Ogun state government for this irreplaceable loss, not only to the state but the country at large.”

Present at the event were dignitaries from all walks of life including the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, who was represented by his deputy, former governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun, Serving and retired military personnel.