Aare Oodua Mourns Soleye, Says Late Ex-Minister True Lover Of Humanity

Aare Atunluse Omoluwabi Oodua Worldwide, Chief Muritala Audu, on Monday, mourned the death of Dr Onaolapo Soleye, a former Finance Minister, who died on Wednesday at the age of 90.

Audu, a Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos, described Soleye as a true lover of humanity.

“It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences to the Soleye family on the passing of the venerable Dr Onaolapo Soleye, a true luminary and patriot who served our beloved country with distinction.

“Dr Soleye’s life was a testament to dedication, service, and an unwavering commitment to the betterment of humanity.

“His passing just four days after celebrating his 90th birthday is a poignant reminder of the transient nature of life,” he said.

Audu said that Soleye was a distinguished Associate Professor at the University of Ibadan, Commissioner for Works in Ogun State, and former Minister of Finance during the regime of General Muhammadu Buhari in the 1980s.

According to him, Soleye’s contributions to academia, governance and national development were invaluable.

“His legacy as a true lover of God and humanity resonates through the lives he touched and the positive impact he made in various spheres of our nation.

“As we mourn the loss of this eminent statesman, let us remember Dr Onaolapo Soleye for his exemplary leadership, his commitment to church activities, and his ready support and assistance to all in need.

“His departure leaves a void that will be felt not only by the Soleye family but by the entire nation,” Audu said.

Audu said expressed his heartfelt condolences to the deceased wife, Mrs Modupe Womiloju Soleye and his children-Olamide Soleye, Abimbola Fadimu, Oluwafunmilakin Soleye, and Eyitayo Soleye.

Audu added, “We mourn not just the loss of a distinguished statesman but a father figure whose contributions will be eternally remembered.”

Recalled that Nigeria’s former Minister of Finance, reportedly died in the early hours of Wednesday at Red Wood Specialist Hospital, Ibara GRA, four days after his 90th birthday celebrated on Nov. 11.