Governor Yahaya Bello Commiserates with Obaro of Kabba over Father's Demise »

Kogi State Governor, Alh. Yahaya Bello has expressed his heartfelt condolences to the Owoniyi family over the demise of the patriarch of the family, Pa Timothy Owoniyi, saying the people of the State have lost a “wise encyclopedia”.

The Governor who made his sympathy known in a message signed by him on Thursday and made available to newsmen said “Pa Owoniyi’s life was a chronicle of excellence and hardwork”.

It reads: “The Late Pa Timothy Owoniyi typified the true character of Kogi people. He was a wise encyclopedia who gave his all to promote excellence, peace, industry, honour and integrity.

“We may not be able to interrogate why he has to leave now as we have no power to question God Almighty, his character and values will continue to ring our emotional bell to live for the society.

“Despite being a native of Kabba, Baba lived in Ile Ife, Osun State for decades. He labored to give quality education to his children so as to give them a fair chance of contributing meaningfully to societal development.

“Our consolation remains the legacy he has left behind, including upright sons and daughters, grand children who will constantly be reminded of the integrity Baba Owoniyi was known for.

“It is sad that he has left us when we need patriots who understand that no one people can survive without the support and symbiotic relationship with others, but we will continue to promote the Kogi spirit that Baba held high in his lifetime”.

Governor Yahaya Bello urged young Kogites and Nigerians to emulate the glittering qualities of the late Pa Timothy Owoniyi, saying the society will only know peace when everyone plays positive roles in ensuring peace, harmony and stability.

The late Pa Timothy Owoniyi is survived by two wives and 11 children, one of which is the Obaro of Kabba and Chairman, Okun Area Traditional Council, His Royal Majesty Oba Solomon Owoniyi.

Pa Timothy Owoniyi died at the age of 85 years at Ile Ife where he lived for 65 years.