Prince Ajibola Afonja, a former Minister of Labour and Productivity during the Interim National Government led by Chief Ernest Shonekan, has passed away.
Reports indicate that the former Chairman of First Bank, who hailed from Oyo town in Oyo State, breathed his last on Sunday night at the University College Hospital (UCH) in Ibadan at the age of 82.
Sources reveal that he sustained injuries in a solo car accident near his residence in Ilora, following which he was swiftly transported to UCH in Ibadan, where he later succumbed.
At one point, Afonja had contested for the senatorial seat of Oyo Central Senatorial District under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).
Taiwo Adebayo, the Chairman of Oyo Global Forum (OGF), confirmed Afonja’s demise to GISTLEGIT on Monday, lauding him as a prominent community leader and an exceptional industrialist.
“The passing of Prince Ajibola Afonja, the former Labour Minister and Chairman of First Bank Nigeria, casts a somber shadow over Oyo. His contributions to the industrial landscape of Oyo were monumental, and his philanthropy touched countless lives. His legacy will endure as a beacon of generosity and leadership,” remarked Adebayo.
“Daddy IDS,” as he was affectionately called, owing to his affiliation with his manufacturing company, remained committed to his vision for the nation’s economy, notably the E-Customs project, until his final days.
“While his absence creates a void, his principles of generosity and leadership will continue to guide us. We pledge to honor his memory by upholding the values he cherished and perpetuating his commitment to service and compassion, values that define OGF and which he ardently supported throughout his life,” Adebayo added.
During this period of mourning, heartfelt condolences are extended to his family, the entire Oyo community, as well as his friends and associates worldwide.
