The immediate past Senate President of Nigeria, Senator Bukola Saraki, has paid a condolence visit to the home of late Kwara Deputy governor, Joel Ogundeji, who was a public servant and a former Deputy Governor during Saraki’s eight years tenure as the Governor of Kwara State.
Senator Bukora Saraki who joined others to mourn the former Deputy Governor after the sad news of his death in August, while paying a condolence visit to the wife, Mrs. Comfort Ogundeji, on Monday 4th October 2021, described the late Joel Ogundeji as a gentleman and a loyal deputy.
During his visit, Senator Bukola Saraki reminded Mrs. Ogundeji and the family of how Chief Ogundeji was a diligent and loyal deputy, who despite his age, kept up with the fast-paced with which the administration moved in tackling the challenges of the time.
“As we mourn his passing, we will always remember his contributions to our state and its people. May Almighty God continue to bless, guide and protect, Mrs Ogundeji and the entire family,” he added.
What Senator Saraki Said In August While Mourning Joel Ogundeji?
Saraki while mourning Joel Ogundeji, who served as Deputy Governor of Kwara State, between 2003 and 2011, had described the death of the late politician, civil servant and educationist as a great loss to the state, particularly at this time, when the wisdom and experience of senior stakeholders are needed to steer the ship of the state. He said:
“I am extremely sad and heartbroken to learn about the passing of Chief Joel Ogundeji, who served as Deputy Governor, in the eight years of my tenure as the Governor of Kwara State.
“Throughout his life, which was dedicated to the service of his community, our state, and the country, Chief Ogundeji was a steadfast, reliable and experienced leader and educator, whose commitment to the development of our state and its people was undeniable in both his words and action.
“During our time in the Governor’s Office, Chief Ogundeji’s advice, particularly in dealing with issues concerning the bureaucracy, education sector, and traditional institutions were invaluable. He was also a diligent and loyal deputy, who despite his age, kept up with the fast-pace with which the administration moved in tackling the challenges of the time.
“As we mourn the passing of this great Kwaran, I pray that Almighty God comforts his wife, Mrs. Comfort Ogundeji, and his children; the people of Iwo in Isin LGA; and the entire government and people of Kwara State. He will be dearly missed,” Saraki had said then.
The late Deputy Governor who died after a brief illness in Ilorin, was also a career officer in the Kwara State Civil Service from which he voluntarily retired in May 1993 as the Director, Planning, Research and Statistics in the Local Government Service Commission. He was the chairman/administrator of Irepodun Local government, Omu-Aran between June 1986 and December 1987. He also served at Edu LGA in Lafiaji as the Secretary of the council between January 1988 and June 1990.