Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished public servants as former senator and ex-governor of Kwara State, Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, passed away early Wednesday morning in Abuja. He was 84 years old.

Adebayo, a respected statesman, academic, and pro-democracy advocate, was born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, Kwara State. His illustrious career spanned across education, politics, and civil service.

He first gained national recognition as a Senator in the Second Republic (1979–1983), and briefly served as the Governor of Kwara State in 1983 before the military coup that brought the civilian administration to an abrupt end.

During Nigeria’s dark days under military dictatorship, Adebayo became a vocal supporter of democracy. He was an active member of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a leading force that resisted the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election. His activism forced him into exile in Canada, where he continued to fight for Nigeria’s democratic restoration.

Upon Nigeria’s return to democracy, Adebayo was appointed Minister of Communications (2003–2006) under President Olusegun Obasanjo, where he played a key role in Nigeria’s early telecom sector reforms. He later served briefly as Minister of Works.

News of his death has sparked tributes from across the nation. Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described him as “a father figure, intellectual icon, and patriot who contributed immensely to Nigeria’s democratic journey.”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also expressed his condolences, saying, “Adebayo’s courage in the face of tyranny and his integrity in public office remain exemplary.”

The family is expected to release funeral arrangements in the coming days.

By Erewunmi Peace