Ekiti State Governor, Dr Kayode Fayemi has described the death of two times former minister for information and National Planning, Chief Ayodele Ogunlade ( Adegbemile) as a colossal loss to the state, his community, and Nigeria.
In a statement made available to journalists by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Yinka Oyebode, described late Ogunlade as a man of honour and a worthy ambassador of Ekiti State who projected the core values of excellence, hard work and integrity which Ekiti people are known for .
The Governor noted that Chief Ogunlade positively influenced lives of many people as a renowned journalist, teacher, industrialist and as a politician. He eulogised the influence of chief Ogunlade during his reign in Western Nigeria Television (WNT) and the Broadcasting Service of Ondo State as General Manager .
Dr. Fayemi said late Ogunlade’s appointment as Permanent Secretary in Ondo State two years after his elevation as General Manger was a lesson that hardwork pays ; urging youths
to emulate his virtue which later paved way for his appointment as a Minister of National Planning under the military rule of General Sanni Abacha.
The Governor further stressed that Ogunlade’s life, as a community leader, journalist and industrialist was inspiring and emulating, Saying, his selfless contributions to national development would be missed and could not be forgotten in a jiffy.
The statement reads in part:
“Our highly reverred Baba Ogunlade was an icon of excellence, hardwork and courage which Ekiti people are known for. He was a beacon of hope and lived an inspiring life which the younger generation of Nigerians should emulate. His death is the end of another era which will not easily be forgotten. His death is a loss, not only to Ekiti State but also Nigeria at large”.
“On behalf of the government and good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the family of Chief Ayo Ogunlade, and also pray that God will give them the fortitude to bear the loss”
