Former Ogun State Governor and current Senator representing Ogun East, Senator Gbenga Daniel, has expressed his profound sadness at the recent passing of the former Nigerian Minister of Finance, Dr Onaolapo Soleye, who had just celebrated his 90th birthday before his demise on Wednesday.
In a heartfelt statement released to Media Talk Africa, Senator Daniel expressed, “It is with a heavy heart that I mourn the passage of Dr. Onaolapo Soleye, a remarkable man whose unwavering dedication to acts of kindness and good deeds impacted greatly on a lot of people.”
Senator Daniel went on to testify that Soleye was “a great leader, a mentor, and a man of impeccable principles who inspired countless individuals.”
Dr. Onaolapo Soleye, an alumnus of the Baptist Boys High School in Abeokuta, served as a former Commissioner for Finance in Ogun State before assuming the role of Minister for Finance of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Senator Daniel further extolled Soleye, stating, “Soleye distinguished himself as a prudent financial manager and acquitted himself as a first-class economic administrator in the application of Nigeria’s resources. His commitment to a better Nigeria was unwavering.”
Reflecting on their personal bond, Senator Daniel described the passing of Soleye as a personal loss, reminiscing on their deep relationship as a younger friend and confidant. “I benefited immensely from his unconditional support during trying times,” he added.
He concluded the statement with his deepest condolences to members of Dr. Soleye’s family, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba Matemilola, and His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Aremu Obasanjo, GCFR, former President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who was Dr. Soleye’s boss and friend.
Senator Daniel also extended his condolences to the sons and daughters of Owu Kingdom and Egbaland, expressing his hope that they would find solace in the legacy of good deeds and forthrightness that Dr. Soleye left behind.
