Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has described late Sen. Olabiyi Durojaiye as an astute politician, a dogged fighter and committed democrat.
Sanwo-Olu stated this at the “Evening of Worship and Tributes”, in celebration of life of the late Durojaiye on Wednesday, at The Haven, Ikeja GRA, Lagos.
The late Durojaiye, a second Republic senator and former Chairman of Nigeria Communications Commission (NCC) died on Aug. 24, in Lagos, aged 88.
Durojaiye was also a prominent National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) chieftain and the Acting Leader of Afenifere Egbe Ilosiwaju Yoruba.
The governor who was represented by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, in his tribute said: “We have lost one of the leading lights in the struggle against military dictatorship in Nigeria.
“We take solace in the fact that his struggle was not in vain, as he was able not only to witness the birth of a new dawn of democracy in Nigeria, but also participated actively in the process of its entrenchment.
“He was one of the several Nigerians that stood firm against injustice, mal-administration and inhuman treatment meted on the people by the junta.
“He fought alongside other patriots and as one of the frontline leaders of NADECO, committed to reclaiming the popular mandate on June 12, 1993, given to late MKO Abiola,” he said.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the late NADECO chieftain was a lawyer and an economist whose contribution to national development was unblemished while in service, and would never be forgotten.
He said the late Durojaiye gave a good account of himself as a senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, adding that he was outstanding in his commitment to promote democratic ideals and the best interest of the people, especially the downtrodden.
Sanwo-Olu therefore, prayed that the Almighty God would give the family, the fortitude to bear the loss.
Similarly, Gov. Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, said the late NCC boss’s life was well spent.
Abiodun, who was represented by his deputy, Mrs Naimot Salako-Oyedele, described late Durojaiye as a giver, great supporter, and also prayed for the repose of his soul.
The Council of Chiefs of Ijebu land, represented by Chief Sunny Kuku, the Olori Ogun of Ijebu land, said late Durojaiye, their son, was a man of impeccable character who stood tall in his endeavors.
“Otunba Durojaiye was a giant in pedigree, in intellect, a giant in politics and patriotism,” he said.
NAN reports that the event was graced by a host of top government functionaries, corporate organisations, NADECO members, ethnic groups, political stalwarts, lawmakers and many friends and acquaintances of late Durojaiye.
Other dignitaries at the event were the former Military Gov. of Rivers, Zamani Lekwot, Dr Onikepo Akande, Vice President, Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
Also at the event were members of the Lagos State Executive Council, Mrs Toke Benson, Princess Aderemi Adebowale, Dr Wale Ahmed, Chief Dele Momodu, Publisher, Ovation Magazine, Mr Ayo Opadokun, Secretary General, NADECO among others.
