9th April, 2013
P.M.NEWS editorial on the transition of Mrs Funmilayo Olayinka
Funmi Olayinka, deputy governor, Ekiti State continues to receive accolades even in death for her political toughness and courage. She was defiant and selfless.
She fought vehemently for a cause she believed in and at the end her hard work paid off and even in death she will be remembered in our political history.
Her fight for positive change was exemplary. Along with the governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, and many others the struggle to reclaim their mandate was a no-brainer and they stopped at nothing to achieve it. She was at the forefront of rallies, court sittings and protests in their bid to get justice.
For a woman of striking beauty and remarkable elegance, many often wondered why she went into politics; after all, she was an accomplished banker and corporate sector player, who worked in the financial industry for over 20 years. She was also a champion of women’s rights; she was always destined to affect the lives of more Nigerians for the greater good of the country through politics and she did achieve it.
Elected by Ekiti people to serve via the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria, she showed exceptional leadership brilliance bringing her professional and moral etiquettes to bear on her duties. She demonstrated defiance when necessary and always listened to everyone around her. She never bragged about her accomplishments in life rather she was willing to learn more.
Her battle with cancer was a defining one. She had conquered on many fronts and as a strong woman she was not going to give in to cancer. She fought courageously with all she had but eventually lost the battle.
Her husband, children, aged parents, siblings, relatives and friends will continue to relive her life and how she positively impacted on them. Her memory will linger on forever. The people of the Sasere compound in Ado-Ekiti, home of the late deputy governor will never forget her as well for all she’s done to put the name of that Compound on the global map.
Born 20 June 1960, Olayinka attended Holy Trinity Grammar School, Ibadan where she obtained her first school leaving certificate.
She then proceeded to Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo State, where she bagged her Higher School Certificate. She held a
Masters Degree in Public Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Central State University, Edmond, Oklahoma, United States. She was three times winner of the Dean’s Honour roll.
May her soul rest in peace.