- Safiu Kehinde
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Zacch Adedeji Ph.D, has expressed shock over the death of Hon. Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu, chairman of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Oyo State, describing the lawyer’s death as a personal loss.
Condoling family, friends and especially the APC in the state, Adedeji in a statement by his Technical Assistat on Media, Sikiru Akinola, said Omodewu died at a time he was still needed to contribute more to the deepening of democracy.
Adedeji who said he and Omodewu were commissioners at the same time in the administration of late former governor Abiola Ajimobi explained that “We had a cordial working relationship. He was a big brother to me in the cabinet and after office. Nobody saw his death coming.
“Though we are all humans, the death of my Egbon, Hon. Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu has reminded us of one thing— we should live everyday as though it is our last. We should strive to do good.
“We had hoped to see more of him, but here we are mourning our beloved Egbon.
“I condole the people he left behind, including his aged mother, wife and children. I sympathize with friends and members of the party in Oyo State. May God Almighty grant us the strength to bear the loss,” he added.
The death of Oyo state APC Chairman had also sprouted tributes from lawmakers representing the state in both upper and lower chambers of the National Assembly.
As disclosed by Oyo APC 2023 governorship candidate and Senator representing Oyo Central, Teslim Folarin, Omodewu had died in United States while on treatment of a yet-to-be disclosed ailment.
“I received, with rude shock, the sad news of the death of the State Chairman of our great party, APC Oyo State, Barr. Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu.
“Barr. Omodewu passed away in the United States of America where he was receiving treatments for an ailment. Until his last moments, he was a diligent, dutiful, committed and loyal party leader, a wonderful family man and a friend whose loyalty to party matters was unflagging.” Teslim had posted on his X handle.
Reacting to Omodewu’s death, Oyo North Senator, Abdulfatai Buhari, expressed his shock over the sad news of his demise while comiserating with his family.
“I am devastated by the news of the passing of my dear friend and Oyo, APC Chairman, Barr. Isaac Ajiboye Omodewu, who shockingly left us in the early hours of today in the United States aged 61.
“Barr. Omodewu was more than just a fellow party man to me; he was a brother, a confidant, and a tireless leader whose contributions to Oyo State and our great party, will never be forgotten.
“As Chairman of our beloved party in Oyo State, Barr. Omodewu led us to an outstanding victory in the 2023 elections, showcasing his exceptional leadership and deep commitment to our party. His passing is an immeasurable loss, not only to his family but to all of us in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Oyo state at large.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the Omodewu family of Otu, Itesiwaju Local Government Area, the entire people of OkeOgun, Oyo North Senatorial District, Oyo state and Nigeria during this incredibly difficult time. I pray that God grants them the strength to endure this heartbreaking loss.” Buhari wrote on his X handle.
Similarly, House of Representatives member representing Irepo/Orelope/Olorunsogo Federal Constituency, Mohammed Lateef, expressed his grief over Omodewu’s death while recounting his contribution to 2023 general election.
“I was deeply saddened this morning to learn of the passing of Barrister Isaac Omodewu, the esteemed Chairman of our great party, the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Oyo State.
“It is profoundly difficult to comprehend the loss of such an honourable man, whose dedication and integrity were the bedrock of his service to our party and the community. His sudden departure leaves a void that will be felt by everyone who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
“Barrister Omodewu’s impact on the success of our party, particularly during and after the 2023 general election, is immeasurable. His unwavering commitment, tireless efforts, and strategic guidance were instrumental in helping many of us achieve our goals.
“His leadership and wisdom have left an indelible mark on our party, and his legacy will be remembered with deep gratitude and respect.
“In this time of grief, my thoughts and prayers are with the Omodewu family and all the leaders of our party. I pray that the Almighty grants you the strength and fortitude to bear this great loss. Please accept my deepest condolences as we honour the memory of a true leader and an honourable man.” He wrote.