Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji and former Senator representing Ekiti North Senatorial District, Ayo Arise, have expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Senator Anthony Ademiyiwa Adeniyi, describing his death as a major loss to Ekiti State, the nation, and the legal profession.
Adeniyi, a respected chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former senator who represented Ekiti South Senatorial District, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 75.
In a statement released by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, Governor Oyebanji described the late senator as an accomplished legal practitioner, seasoned politician, and dedicated public servant whose legacy in democratic governance and national development would continue to be remembered.
The governor noted that Adeniyi played a crucial role in the legal process that restored the mandate of the progressive government in Ekiti State, particularly the court victory that led to the inauguration of former Governor Kayode Fayemi in 2010.
He also praised the late lawmaker for his effective representation of Ekiti South Senatorial District in the National Assembly between 2011 and 2015. During his time in office, Adeniyi was known for supporting constitutional and electoral reforms, as well as policies aimed at boosting investment and economic growth.
Oyebanji further highlighted Adeniyi’s remarkable contributions to the legal profession, recalling his tenure as Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association’s Akure Branch from 1990 to 1992 and his years of service on the association’s National Executive Committee.
According to the governor, Nigeria has lost a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria, a principled politician, and one of Ekiti’s most respected sons.
Former Senator Ayo Arise also paid tribute to the late statesman, describing his death as a painful and unexpected loss. He said Adeniyi’s vast experience as a lawyer and legislator made him an invaluable figure whose wisdom would be greatly missed.
Arise noted that the late senator served the country with dedication and remained a respected voice within the legal community. He added that Adeniyi’s passing came at a time when Nigeria still needed his wealth of knowledge and experience.
