A former Ondo State Commissioner for Education and ex-Director-General of the Directorate of Technical Aid Corps (DTAC), Dr Pius Osunyikanmi, has died at the age of 55.
Osunyikanmi reportedly died on Saturday after a protracted illness, according to a Starnews report citing a family source.
The former director-general was also a close ally and political adviser to former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko.
His death was confirmed in a condolence message issued on Saturday by Rotimi Akinwamide, the All Progressives Congress candidate for the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo Constituency in Ondo State.
Akinwamide described Osunyikanmi as “a distinguished son of Ile-Oluji, an accomplished academic, an experienced public servant, and a notable figure in Nigeria’s political and administrative landscape”.
He said the deceased dedicated his career to education, public administration and national service.
“Dr Osunyikanmi’s life was marked by dedication to education, public administration, and national service,” the statement read.
Akinwamide added that his death was a significant loss to Ile-Oluji, the Ile-Oluji/Oke-Igbo and Odigbo Federal Constituency, Ondo State, and those who had worked with him.
Osunyikanmi’s Tenure as Technical Aid Corps DG
Osunyikanmi served as Director-General of the Directorate of Technical Aid Corps from August 15, 2013, to August 22, 2023, according to the report.
He was first appointed to the position by former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2013 and was reappointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari in 2018.
During his career, he contributed to education, governance, public administration and Nigeria’s national development.
In his condolence message, Akinwamide said Osunyikanmi’s contributions would remain an important part of his legacy.
“Dr Osunyikanmi’s contributions to education, governance, and national development will remain part of the story of his life,” he said.
The APC candidate extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, friends, political associates and the people of Ile-Oluji.
He also prayed for strength and comfort for those mourning the former commissioner.
“May the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and give all those he has left behind the courage to endure this difficult moment,” the statement added.