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The quiet agrarian town of Oke Onigbin in Kwara State became the epicenter of national attention on Saturday as political leaders, clerics, family, and citizens converged to bid a final farewell to one of Nigeria’s most revered elder statesmen, Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo — a former Governor, Senator, and Minister who passed away in August at the age of 84.

The funeral service, held at All Saints Anglican Church, was marked by an emotional outpouring of tributes, heartfelt reflections, and solemn calls for renewed commitment to governance values the late politician embodied throughout his distinguished public life.

The ceremony brought together a rare mix of Nigeria’s political heavyweights — past and present — in honour of a man celebrated for integrity, moderation, and service.

A Gathering of Political Titans

Leading the long list of dignitaries was Kwara State Governor and Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, accompanied by his Deputy, Elder Kayode Alabi. Also in attendance were former Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, former Ogun State Governor, Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and immediate past Kwara Governor, Abdulfatah Ahmed (Mai Gida).

They were joined by Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, Deputy Senate Leader and Senator representing Kwara South, Arch. Oyelola Yisa Ashiru, former APC National Secretary, Dr. Iyiola Omisore, and Rt. Hon. Raheem Tunji Olawuyi (Ajuloopin), who represents Ekiti/Isin/Oke-ero/Irepodun Federal Constituency.

The atmosphere was one of dignity and reflection as family members, associates, and church leaders extolled Chief Adebayo’s virtues — describing him as a rare bridge-builder, moral compass, and selfless leader whose contributions transcended politics.

A Voice of Truth from the Pulpit

Delivering a moving sermon, Archbishop Israel Amoo, the Archbishop of Kwara Anglican Province, paid glowing tribute to the late elder statesman’s life of faith and integrity. He, however, used the solemn occasion to deliver a stirring message to the state government, particularly on issues of pensioners’ welfare and rural infrastructure.

“Your Excellency, Mr. Governor, pensioners in Kwara State are suffering. They are suffering and dying in penury,” Archbishop Amoo declared emphatically, drawing murmurs of approval from the congregation.

He lamented that retirees from 2019 to 2025 are still awaiting their gratuities and called on the government to urgently prioritize their welfare. The cleric also decried the deplorable state of rural roads, especially the one leading to Oke Onigbin, describing it as a “symbol of neglect and a security risk” that urgently requires government attention.

Archbishop Amoo’s message, though delivered in a spirit of pastoral concern, resonated strongly as a reminder of the late Adebayo’s own values — principled leadership, justice, and empathy for the people.

A Legacy of Service and Faith

In his vote of thanks, Engr. Cornelius Oluwasegun Adebayo, Executive Secretary/CEO of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA) and son of the deceased, expressed profound gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq, dignitaries, and all who participated in the one-week series of funeral activities in Abuja and Kwara.

He announced, in honour of his father’s lifelong devotion to faith and community, the donation of a brand-new bus to All Saints Anglican Church, Oke Onigbin — a gesture that drew loud applause from the congregation.

Speaking earlier, Deputy Governor Elder Kayode Alabi eulogized Chief Adebayo as “a patriot, teacher, and mentor whose exemplary public service remains a reference point for generations.”

An Era Ends in Kwara

The funeral procession later moved to the Adebayo family compound, where Governor AbdulRazaq led dignitaries and family members to the final interment. As the coffin was lowered into the grave amid tears and hymns, many described the moment as “the end of an era for Kwara State” — a farewell to one of the state’s most iconic political figures.

Chief C.O. Adebayo’s political career spanned over five decades, during which he served as Governor of Kwara State during the Third Republic, Senator of the Federal Republic, and Minister of Communications under President Olusegun Obasanjo.

Known for his humility and integrity, he was widely respected across party lines as a true statesman, a moral beacon, and a leader who placed public good above personal gain.

Final Rest, Enduring Legacy

As the sun set over Oke Onigbin, the people of Kwara and Nigeria at large were left with the enduring legacy of Chief C.O. Adebayo — a man whose name became synonymous with uprightness, civility, and service.

Though he may have been laid to rest, his ideals — honesty, discipline, and compassion — remain a guiding light for a new generation of leaders in search of Nigeria’s moral compass.

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Former Governor, Senator, and Minister, Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, laid to rest in Oke Onigbin, Kwara State, amid tributes from top Nigerian leaders. Archbishop Amoo delivers emotional sermon urging better welfare for pensioners and rural infrastructure.