Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has led tributes following the death of former Head of Service and Secretary to the State Government, Prince Babatunde Osokoya, describing his passing as a major loss to the State and its Civil Service.
Osokoya, an elder statesman from Omu-Ijebu, died at the age of 81 after a brief illness at a private hospital in Abeokuta. Governor Abiodun noted that the late administrator remained active in public affairs until his final days and was present at events marking Ogun State’s 50th anniversary.
The Governor said the news of Osokoya’s death came as a shock, particularly given his lively presence during the golden jubilee celebrations.
According to Abiodun, the late statesman was one of the most accomplished technocrats produced by Ogun State, whose career exemplified discipline, integrity and dedication to public service.
He recalled that Osokoya rose rapidly through the civil service ranks, becoming a Permanent Secretary at 35 and later serving as Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service at 49, positions he held with distinction until his retirement in 1996.
Governor Abiodun added that Osokoya continued to contribute to governance after retirement, especially during his tenure as Chairman of the Ogun State Civil Service Commission between 2003 and 2011, where he promoted merit-based appointments and institutional capacity building.
He also commended the late administrator’s commitment to the welfare of retired civil servants through his leadership of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in the State.
Beyond Government service, Abiodun described Osokoya as a mentor, philanthropist and strong advocate of youth development, particularly through sports, noting that his support for football created opportunities for many young people in Ogun State.
The Governor extended his condolences to the Osokoya family, the Ogun State Civil Service and residents of the State, praying for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed elder statesman.
About The Author
