Ex-Ondo works commissioner dies at 88, Senator, APC elders mourn

A former Commissioner for Works in Ondo State and Chairman of the All Progressives Congress Elders Forum in the state, Chief Erastus Akeju, is dead.

Akeju reportedly died at the age of 88 after a brief illness.

His death was announced in a statement issued on Saturday by the facilitator of the Ondo State APC Elders Forum, Chief Demola Ijabiyi.

Reacting to the development, the Senator representing Ondo North Senatorial District, Olajide Ipinsagba, described the late Akeju as a leader of exceptional character and unwavering commitment to public service.

In a statement, Ipinsagba said the deceased made significant contributions to the development of Ondo State, particularly during his tenure as Commissioner for Works.

“It is with profound sadness that I received the news of the passing of Chief Elder Erastus Akeju, a distinguished statesman, community leader, and elder whose life was dedicated to service, integrity, and the advancement of his people.

“His passing is a significant loss not only to the Akeju family but also to the people of Akoko North West Local Government, Ondo North Senatorial District, and Ondo State as a whole. I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, associates, and all those who mourn this painful loss,” he said.

According to him, the late politician distinguished himself through visionary leadership and dedication to grassroots development during his tenure as chairman of Akoko North-West Local Government Area.

“His tenure remains a benchmark for responsive and people-oriented governance,” he stated.

Akeju served as chairman of the local government before his appointment as Commissioner for Works under the administration of the late former governor, Adebayo Adefarati.

He later became chairman of the APC Elders Forum, which has been mobilising support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.

Ipinsagba described the deceased as a humble and patriotic leader whose legacy of service would continue to inspire future generations.

Also mourning the late elder statesman, Ijabiyi described his death as a monumental loss to the APC, Ondo State and Nigeria’s political community.

“Throughout his lifetime, he remained a voice of moderation, unity, and development, mentoring generations of political leaders and contributing immensely to the growth of democratic governance,” he stated.