President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, former Governor of Kwara State and ex-Minister of Communications, who passed away at the age of 84, describing him as “a true statesman and a leading light in Nigeria’s political firmament.”
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the State House, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the elder statesman, lauding his unwavering dedication to public service, progressive politics, and the ideals of democracy.
“During his extraordinary lifetime of 84 years, which was marked by an unyielding commitment to public service and progressive politics, C.O., as political associates fondly called him, was a strong voice and a leading light in Nigeria’s political firmament,” the President noted.
Chief Adebayo’s political journey spanned decades, beginning with his tenure as a Senator in the Second Republic under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), led by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo. He rose to national prominence after winning the 1983 governorship election in the old Kwara State, a significant upset at the time.
President Tinubu particularly praised Adebayo’s role during the country’s democratic struggles following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 Presidential Election. “He was one of our leaders who cast aside every comfort and stood firmly in defence of democracy and the ideals of justice, fairness and equity,” Tinubu said.
Highlighting his years in political exile in Canada, Tinubu recounted their close association during that turbulent period: “I worked closely with him during our years in exile. He demonstrated rare courage, integrity, and perseverance during these difficult times.”
Beyond politics, Adebayo was revered within Afenifere, the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, where he served as “a voice of reason and a stabilizing influence,” the President added.
Between 2003 and 2007, Adebayo served as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and later as Minister of Transportation, leaving behind what Tinubu called “a legacy of patriotism and commitment to the progress of Kwara State and the Yoruba race.”
The President extended his condolences to Adebayo’s immediate family, political allies, and the people and government of Kwara State.
“May the immediate family he left behind, his political associates, the government and the people of Kwara State find consolation in his legacy of impeccable service,” Tinubu concluded.
Chief Cornelius Adebayo is remembered not only as a politician but as a principled leader, fearless democrat, and a towering figure in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.