Sen. Sharafadeen Alli, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Prof. Isiaka Kolawole, a prominent party chieftain and former Deputy Executive Secretary of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC).
In a condolence message issued on Sunday, Alli described Kolawole’s death as a painful and significant loss to the APC family, Oyo State and Nigeria.
He said the deceased was a distinguished scholar, administrator, politician and public servant who made substantial contributions to the advancement of education and good governance.
According to him, Kolawole’s death had created a significant vacuum within the progressive political family, particularly in Oyo State, where the late professor was widely respected for his intellect, political maturity, discipline and commitment to public service.
The APC governorship candidate recalled Kolawole’s service at UBEC and his contributions to the education sector, noting that his wealth of experience and knowledge made him a valuable asset wherever he served.
Alli said that Kolawole also served as Director-General of the 2023 Oyo APC Governorship Campaign Council.
He described the late professor as a man who demonstrated that politics could be pursued with dignity, principle and a commitment to the broader interests of society.
The APC governorship candidate added that Kolawole’s counsel and contributions to the progressive movement would be deeply missed by party members and associates.
He commiserated with Kolawole’s immediate family, friends, political associates, colleagues and the entire APC family, urging them to draw comfort from the worthy legacy of service, scholarship and humanity left behind by the deceased.
Alli prayed that Almighty Allah grant the deceased eternal rest and forgive his shortcomings.
“Prof. Isiaka Kolawole lived a life of impact and service. His departure is painful, but we are consoled by the knowledge that he left an indelible mark on education, public administration and politics.
“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannatul Firdaus,” Alli said.
