Ekiti State governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has expressed condolences on the death of the immediate past Deputy Governor of the state, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi.

Otunba Egbeyemi died on Friday evening after a brief illness. He was 79 years old.

Egbeyemi, a renowned teacher and lawyer, served as Deputy Governor between October 16, 2018 and October 15, 2022. He had earlier served as a legislator in the old Ondo State. He later served as chairman, Ado Local Government Council and Commissioner for Education.

Governor Oyebanji in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr Yinka Oyebode, described the late Deputy Governor as a statesman of repute, respected community leader and a great lover of his people, who made very significant contributions to the growth and development of the state.

The governor described the late Egbeyemi as a distinguished leader who served Ekiti State meritoriously in different capacities and continued to contribute to the development and stability of the state out of office, till he breathed his last.

Governor Oyebanji who described Otunba Egbeyemi as a man of Honour, a great leader of his people and a father figure to many, said the late Deputy Governor would be sorely missed for his frankness, deep insight and wise counsel.

“Baba ran a good race, served our dear state with his time, talent and resources and etched his name in gold as a man of honour, excellent team player and a seasoned administrator. We shall miss his amiable personality and wise counsel.

“On behalf of my wife, the Government and good people of Ekiti State, I commiserate with the children and immediate family members of our dear leader and former deputy Governor, Otunba Bisi Egbeyemi.

“While we thank God for the life of impact he lived, we know that he shall be sorely missed. Our prayer is that God Almighty will grant him eternal rest and comfort the family,” the statement added.