Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, has expressed profound grief over the death of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I, the Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti. In his condolence message, Fayemi extended heartfelt sympathies to the Ekiti State Government, the Ilawe royal family, the immediate family of the late ruler, and the entire Ilawe-Ekiti community.
Fayemi described the monarch’s demise as a huge loss to Ekiti State and the entire country. He recalled that during the reign of the late Alawe, Ilawe-Ekiti witnessed significant development and unity among its people. The former governor noted that the late monarch’s commitment to culture preservation and his relentless work for the growth of his domain and Ekiti State will be remembered for generations.
Fayemi highlighted that Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi was an accomplished diplomat who served the nation for over 25 years, attaining the rank of Deputy Director in several foreign missions. He described him as a diligent, upright, and dedicated public servant. The former governor also pointed out that the late monarch chaired the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers from 2019 to 2021 during Fayemi’s administration, where he showed exceptional leadership by focusing on the welfare of the council, fostering harmony among chiefs, and remaining committed to the state’s advancement.
Fayemi stated that the 14-year rule of the monarch will be remembered for his great contributions to community development, investments in the well-being of his subjects, and a legacy of service, integrity, and piety. He added that the passing of the king is a personal loss to him and his family, urging the royal family, the people of Ilawe-Ekiti, and all associates of the departed ruler to find comfort in the remarkable legacy he left. The ex-governor prayed for the peaceful rest of the monarch’s soul and for God to grant the family strength to bear the irreparable loss.