Senator Ibikunle Amosun, a former governor of Ogun State, said on Saturday that Major General Ekundayo Opaleye (rtd), the former military governor of the former Ondo State, passed away. He called it a great loss for both the state and all of Nigeria.

Opaleye was hailed by Amosun as an illustrious son of Owu Kingdom, Egbaland, and a dedicated military officer who passionately served his country.

According to reports, Opaleye passed away on Saturday morning at his GRA, Ibara home in Abeokuta from a heart attack.

The former governor declared, “Earlier today, Saturday, November 18, 2023, I mourn the passing of another illustrious son of Owu Kingdom and a patriotic military officer who served as Governor of old Ondo State, Major General Ekundayo Opaleye (Rtd).”

“What Major General Opaleye will be known for his unselfish service in the Nigerian Army, which culminated in his promotion to the rank of Major General. He served in various military capacities in Nigeria and Africa, including as Corps Commander of the Nigerian Army Engineers and Commander of the OAU Neutral Military Organization Group (NMOG) in Rwanda.

“As the Balogun of Erunmu Owu, Major General Ekundayo Opaleye was steadfastly dedicated to the advancement of Owu kingdom, Egbaland, and Ogun State, even beyond his distinguished military career.

“I remember how well he led the organizing committee for our kabiyesi, the Olowu of Owu, Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola’s coronation in 2022. Ogun State and Owu Kingdom have really lost a distinguished son.

“My prayers and thoughts are with him wife, kids, grandkids, and his whole family, who are all in deep sorrow over his death. In addition, I express my condolences to Kabiyesi, the Olowu of Owu, the Balogun of Owu, the Owu Traditional Council of Chiefs, and his principal supporter, the Nigerian military, on his passing.

The statement added, “May the Almighty God grant him eternal rest and give his family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”