Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed profound grief over the death of Mr Olusegun Awolowo Jr., the former Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) and grandson of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Governor Abiodun described the passing of the 62-year-old lawyer as a “deeply profound personal loss” and a “deeply shocking incident,” stating that he received the news with utter disbelief.
In a heartfelt tribute, the governor eulogised Awolowo Jr. as “a gentleman par excellence, voice of courage, and consummate public servant.” He noted that to all who knew him, the late Awolowo was “affable, highly intelligent, extremely affable and easy going,” adding that he would be sorely missed.
“It is extremely hard to process the news that Segun Awolowo Jr. is gone, but we submit unreservedly to the decision of the Almighty God,” Governor Abiodun said.
Reflecting on his life, the governor highlighted Awolowo Jr.’s resilience, noting that he was born two months after his father’s death but rose above early challenges to become an icon in his own right.
The tribute also chronicled his distinguished public service career, which included:
· Serving as Special Assistant on Traditional Institutions and Legal Matters under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
· Serving as Special Assistant to President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
· Holding cabinet positions in Ogun State as Secretary for Social Development and Secretary of Transport between 2007 and 2011.
· Serving as the Executive Director of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) from 2013 to 2021, a period during which he was unanimously elected as the President of National Trade Promotion Organisations for ECOWAS member states in 2021.
“His earthly sojourn may have been brief, but it was hugely impactful,” Governor Abiodun stated.
He concluded by extending his commiseration to Awolowo Jr.’s wife, children, the entire Awolowo dynasty, and Nigerians at large, praying that his “gentle soul rest in sweet repose.”
