President, Forum of Regions of Africa and former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi has described the death of the Speaker, Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt Hon Funminiyi Afuye, as a huge loss to Nigeria and Ekiti people at a critical period of the nation’s history.
Dr Fayemi, in a statement during his condolence visit to the family of late Hon Afuye on Wednesday, said he received the tragic news with shock.
The former Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) described Afuye who passed on at the age of 66 years as a personal friend, an elder statesman, a selfless leader, an astute politician and a pro-democracy activist who fought relentlessly for peace, stability, and development of his fatherland.
Dr Fayemi noted that the deceased, during his lifetime, was passionate about wider national developmental issues and fanatical about matters that concerned Ekiti. He said the deceased’s sterling leadership qualities became quite visible to the people of Ekiti during his tenure as Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, and later Commissioner for Integration and Intergovernmental Affairs before he was re-elected to the 6th House of Assembly where his colleagues found him worthy to lead them as the Speaker.
The former Governor added that Afuye promoted the beliefs and values which he demonstrated throughout the pro-democracy struggles till the end; noting that his contributions to the democratic enterprise in Nigeria cannot be forgotten.
Dr Fayemi stressed that the late activist and politician positively impacted the lives of many people, especially the less privileged, and would be sorely missed for his compassion, forthrightness, and vision.
“While I mourn the painful exit of this great son of Ekiti, I am comforted by the fact that he played a crucial role in our history as a state and country, and he gave a good account of himself, writing his name in gold.
“I will forever cherish the memories of his participation in the struggle against military rule and his outstanding tenure as Speaker of the 6th Assembly. He was a fearless and dogged fighter who served the people with dedication, sacrifice, and diligence.
“His passage marks the departure of one of the great voices of reason, moderation, and sobriety in our society, arguably at a time when the polity needs these traits the most.
“I join his family, the Governor and people of Ekiti State, the leadership and Honourable members of the Ekiti State House of Assembly on this irreparable loss. May God grant him eternal rest”, Fayemi said.
