EKITI State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has expressed profound sorrow over the demise of former Military Administrator (MILAD) of Bayelsa State, Navy Captain Caleb Olubolade (rtd), describing the loss as a significant blow to the state and the nation at large.
The late Captain Olubolade, who also served as Minister of Police Affairs and was a governorship aspirant in Ekiti State, passed away on Sunday at the age of 70.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Mr. Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji lamented the passing of the former minister, stating: “Ekiti has lost a distinguished son who left an indelible mark in his military career, public service, and political endeavours.”
The governor emphasized that Olubolade’s death represents a monumental loss not only to Ekiti State but also to Nigeria, where he rendered exemplary service both in the military and as a respected politician and public servant.
Oyebanji highlighted the enduring legacies of the late Navy Captain in Bayelsa State, where he played a pivotal role in laying a solid developmental foundation, as well as at the federal level, where he served as Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Minister of Special Duties, and later as Minister of Police Affairs under the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
The governor further noted that Olubolade’s transition into politics following his military retirement was driven by his unwavering commitment to contributing to Ekiti State’s progress. He contested the governorship under the platforms of the Alliance for Democracy (AD), Action Congress (AC), and later the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Praising the deceased as a proponent of politics without bitterness, Governor Oyebanji acknowledged Olubolade’s dedication to the Ekiti project and his collaboration with other patriots to advance the state’s development.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the immediate family, friends, associates, the people of Ipoti-Ekiti, and the entire state, praying for divine comfort in this period of grief.
Governor Oyebanji stated, “On behalf of the Government and the good people of Ekiti State, I extend my deepest sympathies to the children, immediate and extended family members of the late Navy Captain Olubolade. May God grant them the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss and grant the departed eternal rest.”
It is noteworthy that the late Olubolade’s first daughter, Mrs. Oluwayemisi Akinadewo, is married to Mr. Gabriel Akinadewo, Publisher of Freedom Online and a member of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP).
