By BASHIR ADEFAKA
A former Military Governor of Old Ondo State (Ondo/Ekiti), Major General Ekundayo Babakayode Opaleye (Rtd), is dead.
Opaleye was said to have died Saturday morning at his Ibara GRA residence, in Abeokuta, from a heart attack.
The DEFENDER recalls that Colonel Ekundayo Babakayode Opaleye, at his rank then, had succeeded Navy Captain Mike Okhai Akhigbe who succeed Commodore Michael Bamidele Otiko and governed Ondo State when what is today Ekiti State was party of it between 1986 and 198 for one year and four months. He was later succeeded by then Navy Captain Olabode Ibiyinka George, who governed the old Ondo State for over three years between 1986 and 1990.
From Right: Military Governor of Ondo State, Col. Ekundayo Babakayode Opaleye, Founder of C&S Church Zion, Apostle Elisha Lene Ogunfeyimi, and the Olojoda of Oda, Ondo State, during Opaleye’s time as military governor in the state.
General Opaleye, who once talked to The DEFENDER in light language that “I am a farmer”, was until his death the Balogun Erunmu of Owu Kingdom Abeokuta, Ogun State.
“He was military governor of old Ondo State (before the creation of present-day Ekiti State) from August 1986 to December 1987, during the regime of Military President, General Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida.
“He took over from Admiral Mike Akhigbe of blessed memory before handing over to Commodore Olabode George,” a statementannouncing his death said.
He was a patriotic military officer – Governor Abiodun
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun has described the death of the former military governor of old Ondo State as a great loss to the state and Nigeria.
Abiodun, said late Maj. Gen. Opaleye’s patriotism as a military officer and dedication to duty as an administrator will always be remembered.
“Major General Opaleye’s contribution to our nation, particularly during his tenure as the military governor, will always be remembered. His dedication and service to the people of old Ondo State will forever be cherished. His sudden demise is a great loss to the entire country.
“We stand in solidarity with the bereaved family, offering our support and prayers as they navigate through this painful period. May they find strength and solace in the memories shared with Major General Opaleye. Our thoughts and prayers are with them,” the governor said.
