Dare Babalola
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, describes the passing of former Head of Service and Secretary to the State Government, Babatunde Osokoya, as a painful and significant loss to the state.
Abiodun, in a statement on Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, said the news of the passing of the former Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service “left him deeply shaken,” noting that the late administrator was full of life during the golden jubilee celebrations.
“It is profoundly shocking that Omoba Albertson Babatunde Osokoya, mni, who joined us during the thanksgiving service and anniversary banquet, is no longer with us,” Abiodun said.
“We are, however, grateful to God for the impactful life he lived and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.”
He described Osokoya as a rare public servant whose dedication, integrity and professionalism helped shape Ogun State’s civil service.
According to the governor, the deceased served meritoriously in several key positions, including Permanent Secretary, pioneer Chief of Staff to the Governor, Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service—roles that strengthened governance and institutional stability in the state.
Abiodun noted that Osokoya’s influence extended beyond retirement, particularly during his tenure as Chairman of the Ogun State Civil Service Commission, where he championed merit-based recruitment and capacity building.
“His leadership raised standards within the public service and produced officers who continue to serve with excellence today,” he said.
The governor also commended Osokoya’s unwavering commitment to retired civil servants through his leadership of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in the state.
Recalling Osokoya’s career, Abiodun said he rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary at the age of 35 and later became Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service at 49—positions he held until his retirement in 1996.
He was subsequently appointed Chairman of the Civil Service Commission between 2003 and 2011 in recognition of his service record.
Beyond government service, Abiodun described the late statesman as a compassionate mentor, philanthropist, and supporter of youth development, particularly in sports.
He added that Osokoya’s contributions to football helped nurture talents and provided opportunities for many young people across Ogun State.
The governor extended his condolences to the Osokoya family, the civil service community and the people of Ogun State, praying for the peaceful repose of the departed elder statesman’s soul.
Osokoya, a respected elder statesman from Omu-Ijebu, died Sunday at 81 following a brief illness at a private hospital in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
He remained engaged in public affairs until his passing, recently participating in Ogun State’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
