The Kogi State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Professor Olu Akerejola, a distinguished indigene of Ogori in Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area and former Director-General of the Industrial Training Fund (ITF).
Until his death, Professor Akerejola, who died late Monday in Abuja, was the Ubuoro of Ogori, a second class stool.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Lokoja, the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, described the late academic as “a detribalised Nigerian, a renowned scholar, and a great patriot who devoted his life to knowledge, service and the pursuit of unity both within Kogi State and across the nation.”
According to the Government, Akerejola’s commitment to building bridges among people and his unwavering belief in the ideals of a united Nigeria remain an indelible legacy.
Fanwo noted that Kogi State has lost an outstanding son whose intellect, humility, and passion for development brought pride to the State, assuring that the Government stands with the Akerejola family, the Ogori/Magongo community, and indeed the entire people of the State in this moment of grief.
He prayed that Almighty God grant the late Professor’s soul eternal rest and give his family the fortitude to bear the loss.
Professor Akerejola trained as a Veterinary Doctor and taught for many years in Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria.
He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Grace Akerejola, four children and many grand children.