The Statesman who defied Tyranny – Tinubu reveals untold legacy of Cornelius Adebayo

President Bola Tinubu has paid glowing tribute to former Governor of Kwara State and elder statesman, Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, describing him as “a true patriot” and “a stabilising influence in Nigeria’s political landscape.”

Chief Adebayo, who passed away at the age of 84, was a seasoned academic, a progressive politician, and a former Minister of Communications and Transportation.

In a heartfelt statement released on Wednesday, President Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over his passing, recalling the late politician’s extraordinary contributions to democracy and national development.

“I received the news of the passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, a former academic and former Governor of Kwara State, with profound sadness,” President Tinubu stated.

Describing him as “a strong voice and a leading light in Nigeria’s political firmament,” the President praised Adebayo’s unwavering commitment to public service and the progressive ideals championed by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

“As a Senator in the Second Republic, he held aloft the banner of the Unity Party of Nigeria, led by the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo,” Tinubu noted.

“In the 1983 general elections, his pedigree as a progressive politician shone brightly when he caused an electoral upset to win the governorship election in the old Kwara State as the second elected civilian governor.”

Chief Adebayo’s legacy, President Tinubu said, is etched not only in his electoral victories and appointments but in his moral courage during Nigeria’s most turbulent democratic struggles.

“During the dark days of military dictatorship that followed the annulment of June 12, 1993 Presidential Election won by late Chief MKO Abiola, Chief Adebayo was one of our leaders who cast aside every comfort and stood firmly in defence of democracy and the ideals of justice, fairness and equity,” the President recalled.

He also acknowledged the years Adebayo spent in exile in Canada, noting that “it was a period that tested his resilience and commitment to his beliefs.”

President Tinubu shared a personal connection with the late elder statesman, recalling their close collaboration during their years in political exile.

“I worked closely with him during our years in exile. He demonstrated rare courage, integrity, and perseverance during these difficult times,” Tinubu revealed.

Within the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, Tinubu said Adebayo stood out as “a voice of reason and a stabilizing influence.”

From 2003 to 2007, Chief Adebayo served as the Federal Minister of Communications and Transportation, a role in which President Tinubu said he further cemented his legacy as a patriot and visionary.

“He will be remembered for his patriotism and commitment to the progress of Kwara State and the Yoruba race,” Tinubu affirmed.

The President offered his condolences to Adebayo’s family, political associates, and the people of Kwara State.

“May the immediate family he left behind, his political associates, the government, and the people of Kwara State find consolation in his legacy of impeccable service.”