Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State has conveyed his admiration and respect for the late Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi, former Deputy Governor of Ekiti State.
The governor said that Egbeyemi’s legacy of excellence and accomplishments will serve as a lasting source of inspiration for present and future leaders alike.
Governor Oyebanji made these remarks on Sunday during the inaugural memorial thanksgiving service honoring the late Deputy Governor, held at the Emmanuel Cathedral Church in Ado Ekiti.
He described Egbeyemi’s legacy as one marked by significant contributions to the state’s development.
Also present to pay tribute to the late Deputy Governor were two former Governors of the State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi and Otunba Niyi Adebayo, along with the First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the current Deputy Governor, Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, Senator Cyril Fasuyi, and the Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye.
Governor Oyebanji while addressing the congregation, maintained that the former Deputy Governor’s lifetime was marked by dedication integrity and unwavering commitment to public service, thereby leaving an indelible mark on the state’s political landscape.
Reminiscing on the impact of the deceased in his life, Governor Oyebanji lauded Egbeyemi’s exemplary leadership qualities, noting that the late politician’s ability to inspire and unite people from diverse backgrounds towards common goals was unparalleled in the anals of the state.
He charged the children, family and friends to continue to honour his memory by upholding the values of integrity, compassion, and service to humanity that the late Deputy Governor was known for.
“Death is not an end of our existence, it is just a transition, because we live on in the memories we left behind and I thank God His Excellency, Bisi Egbeyemi left behind very good and glorious memories,” the Governor stated.
In his sermon, titled “the righteous shall be remembered forever”, Venerable Ola Olajobi, the Cathedral Administrator, said the former Deputy Governor lived a fulfilled life and served God diligently till the very end.
The clergyman, who described Otunba Egbeyemi as a paragon of virtue whose wisdom provided fertile ground for the development of the Church, individuals and the community at large, charged politicians to emulate his virtues and strive to leave behind legacies of righteousness and service to humanity which the late deputy Governor was known for bearing in mind that one day they will be remembered for something.
Also at the event were Spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon Akin Rotimi; members of the state Assembly and Executive Council, traditional rulers and chieftains of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Afenifere.