By MUHYIDEEN JIMOH

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Chief Cornelius Adebayo, describing him as a steadfast public servant and progressive politician.

?In a tribute to Adebayo on Wednesday, Tinubu said he received the news of his passing with profound sadness.

Adebayo, who died at the age of 84, was a former academic, senator, and the second civilian governor of old Kwara.

?”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.

?“His pedigree as a progressive politician shone brightly during the 1983 general elections,” Tinubu said.

?He first gained national attention as a senator in the Second Republic under the Unity Party of Nigeria led by Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

?In 1983, Adebayo made history by winning the Kwara governorship election in a significant political upset.

?Following the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election, Adebayo stood boldly for democracy, justice, and equity, even at personal cost.

?“Chief Adebayo was one of our leaders who cast aside every comfort and stood firmly in defence of democracy,” Tinubu recalled.

?He spent years in political exile in Canada, returning later to play a key role in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic politics.

?Tinubu highlighted Adebayo’s role in exile, saying, “He demonstrated rare courage, integrity, and perseverance during these difficult times.”

?As a respected member of Afenifere, Adebayo was seen as a voice of reason and a stabilizing figure in Yoruba politics.?

?“Within Afenifere, he was a voice of reason and a stabilising influence,” Tinubu added.?

?From 2003 to 2007, he served as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications and Transportation, contributing to national development.?

?“Chief Adebayo will be remembered for his patriotism and commitment to the progress of Kwara State and the Yoruba race,” Tinubu said.

?The president extended his condolences to Adebayo’s family, associates, and the people of Kwara.

?“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 added. (NAN)