He Was My Brother, My Defender, My Friend”: Governor Abiodun Breaks Down in Tribute to Tunde Oladunjoye"

It was a moment of deep emotion, shared sorrow, and heartfelt tributes as Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State mourned the passing of Comrade Tunde Oladunjoye, the late Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

At the Fidau prayer held in honour of Oladunjoye on Sunday at St. John Community Primary School in Ijebu-Itele, the usually composed Governor fought back tears as he spoke of a man he described not just as a political ally, but as “a brother, a defender, and a true friend.”

With his voice trembling and eyes misty, Governor Abiodun stood before the gathering of party faithful, traditional leaders, family members, and sympathisers, struggling to contain his emotions. “It is hard to believe that Tunde is gone,” he said, pausing to steady himself. “This is personal for me. Very personal.”

He continued:
“Tunde was not just a spokesman for our party. He was the heart of our communications, the voice of our beliefs, the one who always stood tall no matter the storm. When we were at our lowest, he gave us courage. When we were attacked, he defended us without hesitation. He was fearless, bold, and true.”

Governor Abiodun recounted how, during the turbulent days at the beginning of his administration, Oladunjoye remained one of the few who stood firmly by him. “There were times when the waters were rough and everything seemed uncertain. But Tunde stood beside me. Not once did he flinch. He believed in our mission, in our government, and in the people of Ogun State.”

As he spoke, a heavy silence fell over the crowd. Many were moved to tears, touched by the governor’s openness and the clear sense of loss that hung in the air.

“He gave everything — his intellect, his energy, his name, and even his peace — to defend what we stood for. He wasn’t just loyal; he was passionate, articulate, and committed to the very end,” the governor said.

Describing Oladunjoye as a rare gem, Governor Abiodun recalled his days as Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, where his legacies remain visible. “Even then, he was a man of the people — bold in decision-making, but humble in his approach. He lifted people. He built bridges. He left a mark that will endure.”

The Governor promised continued support for the family and urged the party to preserve the values Oladunjoye stood for — courage, service, and truth.

Also paying tribute, the APC State Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi, said the late spokesman's death was a devastating blow to the party. He reminisced on shared battles and Oladunjoye’s pivotal role in strengthening the APC in Ogun.

The 2025 State Amirul Hajj and National President of ACOMORAN, Prince Adebayo Apelogun, offered a spiritual reflection, reminding all of the impermanence of life and the need to live with purpose and kindness.

One of the most touching moments came from Robiat Oladunjoye, the deceased’s daughter, who stood tall as she described her father as “a man of honour, simplicity, and deep compassion.”
“He gave himself to everyone. He was our father, but also a father to so many. His absence leaves a void, but his memory is a lighthouse that will continue to guide us.”

As the sun set over Ijebu-Itele Sunday evening, the crowd dispersed slowly, hearts heavy with grief but filled with pride for a man who lived boldly, spoke truthfully, and served diligently — until the very end.

Tayo Mabeweje 
Media Consultant to the Executive Governor of Ogun State