By Ajewole Joshua | ABNews Features | Ilorin | June 25, 2025
Nigeria is mourning the passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, a distinguished elder statesman, former Governor of Kwara State, and former Minister of Communications, who died Tuesday at the age of 84.
The announcement of his death has sparked an outpouring of grief and reverence from across the political, religious, and civic spectrum. Among the prominent figures to pay tribute was his son-in-law, Pastor Gideon Oyedepo, a cleric and respected General Overseer of C&S Bible Ministries, Lagos
“It hit me like lightning,” Pastor Oyedepo told ABNews.
“Baba was more than a father-in-law. He was my adviser, and a man I deeply respected.”
In an exclusive interview, Pastor Oyedepo described the profound personal relationship he shared with Chief Adebayo, highlighting his influence on both his journey and leadership philosophy.
“He was very close to my brother, Bishop David Oyedepo,” he added. “They often shared deep conversations on how to reshape Nigeria through faith, wisdom, and justice.”
He also referenced a tribute he wrote in Chief Adebayo’s memory:
“He wasn’t just a leader by position — he was a friend of the people. He engaged the grassroots, listened to their concerns, and inspired trust. His leadership was rare.”
Born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, present-day Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, Chief Adebayo’s rise to prominence was shaped by discipline, intellect, and service.
He began his educational journey at All Saints Anglican School, Oke-Onigbin, proceeded to Provincial Secondary School, Ilorin, and then attended Barewa College, Zaria, from 1962 to 1963 — one of Nigeria’s most prestigious institutions at the time.
His political career took off in the 1970s when he was appointed Commissioner for Education, Information, and Economic Development in Kwara State (1975–1978). By 1979, he was elected a Senator under the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN) and in 1983, he became the Governor of Kwara State — a role he held until the military coup led by then-Major General Muhammadu Buhari.
In the early 2000s, Chief Adebayo served as Minister of Communications during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.
Throughout his career, Chief Adebayo championed education, transparency, infrastructure, and fairness. A lifelong disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, he embraced progressive ideals and grassroots development.
“He was a relentless fighter for egalitarianism,” Pastor Oyedepo noted.
“He believed leadership must empower the weak, uplift the poor, and restore dignity to public service.”
His tenure as governor was marked by major reforms in health and education, many of which still shape Kwara’s development blueprint today.
As Nigeria prepares to lay one of its finest to rest, tributes continue to pour in from around the country. Political leaders, religious figures, former colleagues, and the people of Kwara State have all echoed similar sentiments — Chief Adebayo was a man of truth, justice, and enduring compassion.
Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Do you have a personal memory or tribute for Chief C.O. Adebayo?
📩 Send to info@arrowboardnews.online and be featured in our upcoming special memorial coverage.
✍️ About the Author
Ajewole Joshua is a journalist and editor with ABNews, reporting on political history, national leadership, and legacy stories that shape Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Published: June 25, 2025 | Last Updated: June 25, 2025
