'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, have expressed profound sorrow over the death of Mr. Olaniyi Ijalaye, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ogun State. Mr. Ijalaye passed away on the evening of Monday, August 19, 2024, shortly after attending a regular quarterly meeting of the Commission in Abuja.
Mr. Ijalaye, born in 1958 in Owo, Ondo State, was a distinguished legal professional. He completed his Bachelor’s degree in Law (LL.B) from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, in 1982, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1983. He later earned a Master’s degree in Law (LL.M) from the same institution in 1995. Appointed as Ogun State’s REC on February 23, 2022, Ijalaye was known for his integrity, dedication, and commitment to the electoral process. His tenure was marked by a high level of professionalism and conscientiousness.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, conveyed INEC’s deep condolences. “It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Mr. Olaniyi Ijalaye,” Olumekun stated. “He served INEC with remarkable dedication and professionalism. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to his immediate family and pray that God grants him eternal rest.”
The news of Mr. Ijalaye’s death has been met with deep mourning within the Commission and among the broader electoral community. His contributions to the electoral process and his service to Ogun State will be remembered with respect and gratitude.
Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun also issued a statement expressing his condolences. The Governor, in a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Lekan Adeniran, described Mr. Ijalaye’s death as a “rude shock.” He praised the late REC for his honesty, commitment, and humility, highlighting Ijalaye’s exemplary nature in public service.
Governor Abiodun extended his sympathy to Ijalaye’s family, the people of Ondo State, and the entire Ogun State community. “While his death came as a rude shock to us in Ogun State, we take solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilled life of integrity and indelible impact. May God rest his soul and protect the family he left behind,” the statement read.
The combined tributes from INEC and Ogun State reflect the significant loss felt by all who knew and worked with Mr. Olaniyi Ijalaye. His legacy of dedication and professionalism continues to be honored by those he served.
