Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has described the death of former Head of Service and Secretary to the State Government, Prince Babatunde Osokoya, as a painful and significant loss to the state.

Osokoya, an elder statesman from Omu-Ijebu, died at the age of 81 after a brief illness at a private hospital in Abeokuta. Until his passing, he remained actively engaged in public affairs and recently participated in activities marking Ogun State’s 50th anniversary.

Reacting to the development, Governor Abiodun said the news of Osokoya’s death came as a shock, 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,” the governor said. “We are, however, grateful to God for the impactful life he lived and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.”

Abiodun described Osokoya as a rare breed of public servant whose dedication, integrity and professionalism contributed significantly to the growth and stability of Ogun State’s civil service.

According to him, the late statesman served meritoriously in several strategic positions, including Permanent Secretary, pioneer Chief of Staff to the Governor, Secretary to the State Government and Head of Service, roles through which he strengthened governance and institutional continuity in the state.

The governor noted that Osokoya’s influence extended well beyond his retirement, particularly during his tenure as Chairman of the Ogun State Civil Service Commission, where he promoted merit-based recruitment, discipline and capacity building.

“His leadership raised standards within the public service and produced officers who continue to serve with excellence today,” Abiodun said.

He also commended Osokoya’s commitment to the welfare of retired civil servants through his leadership of the Association of Retired Heads of Service and Permanent Secretaries in Ogun State.

Recalling his career trajectory, Abiodun noted that Osokoya 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 with distinction until his retirement in 1996. He was subsequently appointed Chairman of the Civil Service Commission from 2003 to 2011.

Beyond public service, the governor described the late Osokoya as a mentor, philanthropist and advocate of youth development, particularly in sports, noting that his contributions to football helped nurture young talents across the state.

Abiodun extended his condolences to the Osokoya family, the Ogun State civil service and the people of the state, praying for the peaceful repose of the departed elder statesman’s soul.