Former Ogun State Governor Ibikunle Amosun has mourned the passing of a former Military Governor of the old Ondo State, Major General Ekundayo Opaleye (rtd).
Kemi Filani News gathered that Opaleye had died of a heart attack in Abeokuta on Saturday.
Opaleye, the Balogun Erunmu of Owu until his death, had served the Ondo government from 1986 to 1987 under the Ibrahim Babangida regime.
Born on April 7, 1946, Opaleye was the Commander of the OAU Neutral Military Organization Group (NMOG) in Rwanda, among others.
In a statement made available to Journalists, Amosun described the deceased as an illustrious son of Owu Kingdom and a patriotic military officer.
Amosun said Opaleye would be remembered for his selfless services in the Nigerian Army, especially his various military assignments in Nigeria and Africa.
He recalled that beyond his military career, Opaleye was unwaveringly committed to the development of Owu, Egbaland, and Ogun State.
“I recall how he successfully chaired the planning committee for the coronation ceremony of our kabiyesi, the Olowu of Owu, Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola in 2022. Indeed, Owu kingdom and Ogun State have lost an illustrious son,” Amosun expressed sadness.
He said his thoughts and prayers are with his wife, children and the entire family he left behind.
He also commiserated with the Olowu, the Balogun of Owu, former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the Owu Traditional Council of Chiefs, and the Nigerian military.
Senator Amosun prayed to God to grant him eternal rest and give his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
