Glowing tributes flowed freely on Friday as family members, political associates, friends, colleagues and well-wishers at the Service of Songs held in honour of the Late Chief Niyi Ojo, who died last December.
Until his demise, the Late Ojo served as the Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs to Ekiti State Governor, among other notable positions including one of the anchors of the interactive S’etigbo multicast.
The service of songs, which was organized in Ado-Ekiti as part of the funeral arrangements for the late governor’s aide, was attended by dignitaries from across the state.
The Director General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mary Omotosho, who paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Ojo during the service, described him as a dedicated public servant who touched countless lives.
The DG, who recounted his final moments on earth said that his demise was shocking to everyone and prayed for God to keep the family he left behind.
“One thing I have said before on our radio program was that Chief Ojo was busy taking care of other people. Sometimes as human beings with very good heart, we forget to take care of ourselves. We worked closely together in the last government and this government.
“He was a giver so that other people will be happy. He was a good man, very fantastic politician and selfless. We are celebrating Chief’s life because he lived a good life. The God that has taken him away will definitely look after his family and I believe that God will not leave the family.” She said.
Also, the Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Wale Ojo-Lanre spoke glowingly of the Late Ojo, describing him as a selfless politician.
“I met him when he was running an errand for Senator Cyril Fasuyi in Ido but when he died, Senator Fasuyi was complaining that he was not happy with him because he never burdened him with his own challenges.
“He was selfless and not selfish. I am here to honour a man who served others. He was a great man. I am proud of him and God will bless the family.”
His brother, Sunday Omolayo, who recounted his teenage years experience with the Late politician, noted that the state has lost an illustrious son.
According to him,”Chief was not somebody that accumulates wealth and he was not materialistic. He was always ready to help irrespective of who you are and where you come from. “
“That is the kind of good person Ekiti State has lost. I am always proud of him because he is somebody of significance, good political strategist and orator. The family has lost a gem and Ekiti State has lost a very good son.”
Amidst tears and sadness, one of his daughters, Peace Oluwatosin Ojo described her late father as their hero, mentor, diplomat, man of wisdom.
The sober wake-keep equally featured special prayers for the bereaved family, songs rendition by choristers from Christ Apostolic Church Ado-Ekiti, among others.
Other prominent personalities in attendance include Senator Cyril Fasuyi representing Ekiti North Senatorial District; Special Adviser on Gender Mobilization and Empowerment; Chief Mrs Kemi Olaleye , SSAs and SAs from the Governor’s office .