- Akeredolu mourns, says: We’ve lost a great mind
Celebrated former permanent secretary in Ondo State, Dr. Jacob Laoye Adegoke, MFR, has passed on.
This was announced in a statement by the press secretary to the state governor, Mr Olabode Olatunde, which said that Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, received the passage with a deep sense of loss amounting to “further depletion of the generation of retired public servants whose commitment to service are matched with unblemished records.”
The governor aid in the statement: “The death of any human stirs the veins. But the pains associated with the passage of such a great mind with immeasurable wisdom to behold can be devastating. The late Adegoke exuded an alluring oratory quality that was spellbound.
“His exploits in the public service of Ondo State stood him out as a respected bureaucrat. His passion for the state was evident in the quality of service he rendered as he climbed the ladder in the civil service and retired as a Permanent Secretary.
“Late Adegoke’s passion for service earned him another assignment when he was appointed as the Chairman, Governing Council of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo. Under his leadership, RUGIPO experienced a huge leap in development. His salutary efforts were complemented with unbridled courage and resilience in retooling the institution for optimum performance.
“His calmness even in the face of daunting challenges earned him the appellation of “Aiyeole”. His approach to life was easy and steady. Adegoke’s passion for developing young minds in the civil service earned him huge followers. He was a worthy mentor to many.”
While commiserating with his family, the governor described Adegoke’s dedication to the work of the Lord as inspiring as a Christian who served and committed to working in His vineyard.
Akeredolu added: “He was a combination of positively endearing qualities. His brilliance was thrilling, just as his community service was commendable. He was an asset to this state and the country at large. No wonder he was conferred with the National Award of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). He will be sorely missed.”
Adegoke was the Ondo State President of the South-West Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries and Heads of Service
