Chief Olabode George, the former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), is in shock following the death of Major-General Ekundayo Babakayode Opaleye (rtd), the former Military Governor of Old Ondo State. The Nigerian Tribune reported that Chief Bode George expressed deep sorrow, describing Opaleye’s death as a significant loss that has taken away a dedicated military officer who gave his all to Nigeria.
It was reported that in a statement that was released on Sunday in Lagos State, George, who succeeded Opaleye as the Governor of old Ondo State from 1987 to 1990, paid tribute to the late military governor, emphasizing on Opaleye’s commitment to good governance, calling him an excellent administrator.
George, also known as the Atona Oodua of Yoruba land, in the statement shared a personal connection with Opaleye, recalling their relationship since 1964, when they both sat for School Certificate Examinations. He praised Opaleye as a brilliant student who excelled in his papers and continued to distinguish himself in the Nigerian Army.
He said, “This time around, death has really dealt a heavy blow, snatching a patriotic military officer who gave his all to this country.
I knew him as far back as 1964 during our School Certificate Examinations. I sat for my School Cert exams in Ijebu Ode Grammar School while he did his own in Baptist Academy, Lagos.”
Further talking, he said, “He was a brilliant student who passed all his papers. He also distinguished himself when he joined the Nigerian Army.”
