All Progressives Congress National Leader, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, has expressed deep sadness over the passing of former Oyo State governor, Otunba Adebayo Alao-Akala, saying that he would sorely be missed by the people of Ogbomoso, Oyo State and the All Progressives Congress.

In a condolence statement on Wednesday by his Media Office signed by Mr. Tunde Rahman, Asiwaju Tinubu said: “I received the news of the passing of former governor of Oyo State, Otunba Alao-Akala, with shock and deep sadness.

“Coming a month after the death of Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewumi, the loss of Alao- Akala, another eminent son of Ogbomoso and Oyo State, is disheartening.

“Alao-Akala was a leader and prominent politician who did his best not only for his Ogbomoso-hometown, but also Oyo State and Nigeria.

“He served the country meritoriously in the police force, rising to the top of the ladder before venturing into politics. As governor of Oyo State, he contributed his quota to the development of the state and tried to enhance the welfare of the people.

“Alao-Akala passed on when the state and particularly our All Progressives Congress needed his services. His wisdom and experience were required to help resolve the leadership crisis in the state and wield the party together once again.

“My prayer is that Almighty Allah comfort his family, relations and associates and the people of Ogbomoso and Oyo State for they have all lost a fine man. May He also accept his soul and rest him in Aljannatul Firdaus. Amin.”

Earlier today, Tinubu congratulated Senate President Ahmed Lawan as he attains 63 years on earth.

He described Senator Lawan as one leader who is quietly but firmly making the desired impact within the polity.

In a statement congratulating the Senate President on his birthday signed by Mr. Tunde Rahman, Asiwaju Tinubu said: “I heartily congratulate Senate President, Dr. Ahmed Lawan, on attaining 63.

“An intellectual, prominent politician and experienced parliamentarian, the Senate President has contributed immensely to nation-building and is quietly but firmly making the desired impact in deepening democracy and entrenching good governance in the country.

“Through his fine leadership as chairman of the National Assembly and president of the Senate, the parliament has helped President Muhammadu Buhari and the nation to navigate difficult moments.

“Working in concert with House of Representatives Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila, Senator Lawan has maintained a harmonious relationship between the Legislature and Executive, thus fostering national stability.

“Under his watch, the National Assembly also passed into law important legislation like the Petroleum Industry bill and many other bills which had eluded previous National Assemblies.

“I rejoice with Senator Lawan, his family, colleagues in the Senate and his constituents in Yobe State on this occasion of his 63^rd birthday. I wish him many more years, good health, renewed energy and increased wisdom to continue to contribute meaningfully to nation-building.”

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