Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has expressed sadness on the death of Dr Paul Akintelure, an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship aspirant in the state.
Akintelure’s death was announced by the family spokesperson, Mr Oladapo Akintelure, in a statement on Tuesday in Akure.
The statement, titled “Akintelure takes a bow”, said Akintelure who died at the age of 61, was a medical doctor, philanthropist, an APC aspirant, and the Ondo State deputy governorship candidate of the defunct ACN in 2012.
“Dr Paul Akintelure departed from us early this morning in Lagos, leaving behind a legacy of service, dedication, and commitment to the people of Ondo State.
“As a family, we understand his sudden enigmatic demise has left a void in our hearts, and that of his friends, associates, supporters, and political loyalists.
“It is in light of this, we seek calm and, most importantly, your prayers, as we jointly pray for the repose of the soul of Dr. Paul Akintelure,” the statement said.
Aiyedatiwa, in a statement by his spokesperson, Ebenezer Adeniyan, in Akure, described the death of Akintelure as shocking and devastating.
The governor commiserated with the Akintelure family, the people of Okitipupa Local Government Area, and “the progressive fold in Ondo State”.
“Akintelure was a wonderful human being and was a core progressive. He was very consistent and loyal to the tenets of progressive politics in Ondo State and Nigeria.
“He was a friend and associate. He conducted his private business and public affairs with so much decorum and humility to the admiration of many.
“We have lost a complete gentleman. He will be greatly missed,” the governor said.
According to Aiyedatiwa, the death of Akintelure at this critical time in the life of the state is saddening.
Another APC governorship aspirant, Chief Olusola Oke, described Akintelure’s passing as “a further depletion of the clan of the finest in the politics of the country”.
Oke, in a statement he personally signed, said Akintelure enriched politics with dignity and decency.
“It is my prayer that the departed shall find repose in the bosom of the Lord Almighty.
“May God give all members of his immediate family, friends and political associates the fortitude to handle the great loss,” he said.
