A former Head of Service of Ondo State, Comrade Alaba Isijola, fondly called “Isijay” has passed on. He was 73.
Isijola, the most celebrated, and cool-headed HoS in the history of the state, and a former outstanding labour leader, reportedly died on Tuesday night.
He hailed from Owo in Owo Local Government Area, the same birthplace of the legendary first civilian Governor of the state, Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin; and the immediate past bold Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, both departed.
Fondly loved by civil servants in the state, Isijola, who was also a former State President of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, carried into his HoS beat a robust experience spanning years of struggle fighting for workers’ inrest as an outstanding labour leader.
Known for his finesse, diligence and dedication to duty, Isijola was appointed Head of Service by the administration of the departed cerebral Dr Olusegun Agagu.
Notably, the then 43,000 workforce of the state saw his tenure as HoS as a blessing, during which allowances and entitlements were paid as at when due.
Isijola was also celebrated for his unique commitment to public service, diligence and reputation for integrity throughout his years in office.
In fact, colleagues and associates described him as a disciplined administrator whose dedication to duty left a lasting impact on the Ondo State civil service.
He also served as the Special Adviser on Union Matters to the departed Governor Akeredolu.
