Aimobi Mourns Kuye, Omiyale
The Governor of Oyo State, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has described the death of the Otun Olubadan, High Chief Omowale Kuye, as depressing to Oyo State and Ibadanland in particular, coming on the heels of the passing of the Balogun of Ibadanland, High Chief Sulaimon Omiyale.
The governor lamented the death of the two most senior members of the Olubadan Advisory Council in quick succession, which he said marked a sombre moment in the annals of Olubadan chieftaincy and Ibadanland in general.
A statement by the Office of the Secretary to the State Government said that the solace for the state government, sons and daughters of Ibadanland, as well as the Olubadan Advisory Counciul was that the two most senior high chiefs died at ripe ages.
While High Chief Omiyale died on November 7 at the age of 91, High Chief Kuye joined his ancestors on November 19 at the age of 87.
The governor prayed that Allah grant the souls of the two illustrious sons of Ibadan land Al-Jannah Firdaus and to give their families, loved ones and the entire state the fortitude to bear the great loss.
Describing Chief Kuye as urbane and affectionate, the governor said that his simple lifestyle was a lesson in humility despite his accomplishments as a distinguished career federal civil servant and heir apparent to the enviable Olubadan stool.
He said, “As a traditional chief in Ibadan land and venerated senior citizen of Oyo State, Chief Kuye was always readily available to share his economic savvy and pool of experience garnered during his pristine public service with me.
“He will be sorely missed because his wisdom and sound advice on budgeting and planning have impacted on the economic management of this state since I came on board as governor.
“Chief Kuye did this state proud by his incorruptible and untainted career as a federal director of budget under former Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, then as head of state; as well as during his stint under former President Shehu Shagari and former Military President Ibrahim Babangida.”
Ajimobi recalled the legendary philanthropic gestures of the late Otun Olubadan, which became manifest as far back as 1979 when he sold his shares in some blue chip companies to build Apatere Community Grammar School, which he donated to his native Apatere community.
Ajimobi said, “I’m confident that the sublimity of his earthly sojourn, his affectionate love for mankind, his patriotic zeal and service to his fatherland, dedication to Allah and his quintessential lifestyle would make the heavenly to joyfully welcome him home.
“He has fought a good fight for humanity; he has finished his course and has kept faith with Allah’s injunctions. His legacies of philanthropy, orderly behaviour, respect for due process, respect for fellow human beings, culture of tolerance, contentment, discipline and ability to live above board will surely outlive him.”