By Dayo Johnson, Akure

Former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, has mourned the death of former Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Olasinmi Akindele-Odunmbaku, describing her as a loyal public servant, cherished friend and member of his extended family.

Akindele-Odunmbaku was laid to rest in Lagos on Friday.

In a tribute, Mimiko commiserated with her husband, Cardinal James Omolaja Odunmbaku, MFR, and her children, Olakunle and Fifehanmi, praying for the fortitude to bear the loss.

He said he, his wife, and their immediate, extended and political families joined the Odunmbakus in mourning the late commissioner.

“Sinmi was much more than a member of our political family. Over the years, she became a cherished friend and sister whose place in our lives was as deep as that of any blood relation,” Mimiko said.

Describing her passing as a painful loss, the former governor said her life was marked by purpose, dedication and selfless service.

“Olasinmi Akindele-Odunmbaku will be remembered for her infectious enthusiasm, resourcefulness, boundless energy and unwavering commitment to every cause she embraced.

“Whatever assignment she undertook, she pursued with clarity, diligence and uncommon dedication,” he said.

Mimiko recalled that the Akunnu Akoko-born politician served as Commissioner for Women Affairs with exceptional commitment, championing programmes that promoted the social and economic advancement of women while advancing fairness, inclusion and equal opportunity.

He highlighted the Gbebiro initiative, implemented by the Office of the First Lady in collaboration with the Ministry of Women Affairs, as one of the programmes through which she inspired and empowered women to pursue personal growth and community development.

The former governor also described her as a devoted wife and loving mother who successfully balanced the demands of public office with her family responsibilities.

“Despite the demands of public office, she never allowed her commitment to duty to overshadow her commitment to family, carrying both responsibilities with admirable grace,” he said.

Mimiko prayed for the peaceful repose of her soul and for God’s comfort for the bereaved family.