Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu, representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the family of Senator Otunba Kunle Oyero, a remarkable Centenarian and distinguished member of Nigeria’s Second Republic Senate, who passed away today, June 26, 2024, at the age of 100.
In a statement from his media office, Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salisu emphasized that the demise of Senator Oyero is not only a profound loss to the people of Ogun Central Senatorial District and Ogun State but also a significant diminishing of the rank of the Nation’s elder statesmen, given his remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s development.
“I received with mixed emotions but with total submission to God the news of the passing of remarkable Centenarian and Second Republic Senator, Kunle Oyero, earlier today. In one breadth, the sense of huge loss of this great Nigerian is not lessened by the advanced age at death. On the other hand, the death at a milestone age of 100 with great accomplishments to his name, a legacy that is difficult to replicate and progeny that are worthy bearers of his value are indeed a prayer point of many, thus making the event a cause of celebration of his life of impact and achievements.
I recall that about eight months ago, I moved a motion of urgent national importance on the floor of the Senate urging my colleagues to honour Senator Oyero on the occasion of his 100th birthday anniversary. The Senate unanimously agreed to do this, and I am happy that we honoured him, including a Senate delegation to his birthday programme, acknowledging his sacrifices and contributions before he bade us farewell.”
He praised Senator Oyero as a foremost lawyer, an exemplary public servant, and an uncommon philanthropist who played a crucial role in the nation’s progress. Notably, Senator Oyero’s contributions to the drafting of the 1979 Constitution were instrumental, laying the groundwork for the present 1999 Constitution.
“Senator Oyero exemplified the truly excellent and patriotic spirit of the people of Ogun Central Senatorial District and Ogun State at large. His legacy is one of dedication, service, and unwavering commitment to the betterment of Nigeria,” Senator Salisu remarked.
Reflecting on the late Senator’s enduring impact, Senator Salisu who chairs the Senate Committee on ICT and Cybersecurity added, “It is with great honour and privilege that I follow in the footsteps of such an esteemed predecessor. His ideologies, principles, and the causes he championed remain of great value to us all.”
On behalf of his constituents, Senator Salisu also extended prayers for the Oyero family, wishing them the strength to bear this loss and continue the good works of their esteemed patriarch.
According to the statement, Senator Kunle Oyero’s life and legacy will be remembered as a beacon of integrity and public service, inspiring future generations to uphold the ideals he so passionately advocated for.
Senator Kunle Oyero was a member of the Senate in the Second Republic and one of the Senators at the time representing Ogun Central Senatorial District of Ogun State. He served alongside other notable members of that Senate, including Senators Dr. Joseph Wayas (Senate President), Olusola Saraki (Senate Leader), Abraham Adesanya, and David Dafinone
