Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has eulogized the late Chief Mrs. Ayoka Adebayo, former Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State, describing her as a true patriot committed to the progress of Nigeria.
Chief Mrs. Adebayo, a respected figure in Nigeria’s electoral history, passed away on May 18, 2024, at the age of 89 after a brief illness. Her burial is scheduled for June 7, 2024, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
In a statement released by Kehinde Akinyemi, Special Assistant on Media to the former President, and Mrs. Moni Adebayo Abudu on behalf of the family, details of the funeral arrangements were outlined.
A Christian Wake Keep and Night of Tributes will be held on June 6 at the Marquee of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) from 4 PM to 8 pm.
The burial service will follow the next day at the Owu Baptist Church in Totoro, Abeokuta, commencing at 10 AM.
In a heartfelt tribute made available to journalists in Abeokuta, Obasanjo highlighted Adebayo’s significant contributions to the nation’s democratic process.
He praised her integrity and commitment during her tenure as the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner for Ekiti State, noting her refusal to compromise in the face of political pressure.
“Chief Mrs. Adebayo wrote for herself an enviable page in history with her service as the Resident Electoral Commissioner of INEC, Ekiti State.
She served with commitment, integrity, dedication, and loyalty, making significant contributions to the growth of democracy in our country,” Obasanjo stated.
He recounted how she courageously resigned her position to maintain the integrity of the electoral process amidst threats and chaos during the election rerun in Ekiti State.
Obasanjo further emphasized that her legacy will continue to inspire future generations, acknowledging the personal loss to both his family and the larger community.
“The vacuum created by her departure will be very hard to fill within Bankole’s extended family and dynasty.
Ayoka’s kindness, warmth, and grace touched the lives of so many. Her memory will surely continue to be an endless source of inspiration,” he said.
Chief Mrs. Adebayo’s dedication extended beyond her professional responsibilities. As a prominent member of the Owu community and Ogun State, she was a devoted and active supporter of local causes and development.
Obasanjo described her as a “thoroughbred Owu daughter on both father and mother sides,” who was committed to the progress of the Owu Kingdom and Ogun State.
Known for her exceptional organizational skills and unwavering support for women’s empowerment, Adebayo left a lasting impact on her community.
Her reputation as a mobilizer and champion of women’s rights was well-established, reflecting her broader commitment to social progress.
The former President also noted her distinguished service in the Ogun State civil service, where she held various roles and demonstrated industriousness and amiability.
As the Iya Oba of Ibogun Olaogun, her commitment to ethical standards and transparent practices set a high standard for future electoral commissioners and left an indelible mark on the region’s political landscape.
As the burial date approaches, tributes continue to pour in, celebrating the life and legacy of Chief Mrs. Ayoka Adebayo.
Her dedication to public service and her unwavering principles have set a benchmark for integrity and commitment in Nigeria’s electoral processes.
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