Oyo State APC chieftain and former governorship candidate, Senator Teslim Folarin, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Professor Isiaka Kolawole, describing him as a trusted political ally, committed progressive and an exemplary public servant.

Folarin, in a condolence message, said Kolawole’s death was a painful loss to his family, political associates, the progressive political family and the entire Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Kolawole served as the Director-General of Folarin’s 2023 Oyo State Governorship Campaign Council, a role in which the former senator said he demonstrated exceptional leadership, discipline and sound judgement.

He described the deceased as one of the “most straightforward, principled and disciplined politicians” he had ever worked with, noting that Kolawole served in various capacities with honour and maintained an untainted record of public service.

According to Folarin, the late professor’s leadership qualities, maturity, wise counsel and sound judgement were invaluable to him throughout their political relationship.

“His leadership skills, maturity, sound judgement and wise counsel were invaluable to me and will be sorely missed,” Folarin said.

The APC chieftain noted that Kolawole’s contributions extended beyond his immediate political circle, stressing that his death had created a significant vacuum within the party and the broader progressive family in Oyo State.

Folarin also extended his heartfelt condolences to the late politician’s family, friends and loved ones, praying that they would find the strength to cope with the loss.

He prayed to Almighty Allah to forgive Kolawole’s shortcomings, accept his good deeds and grant him Al-Jannah Firdaus.

“May Allah grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” he added.

Folarin concluded his tribute with a personal farewell to his late political associate, saying, “Rest in peace, my dear brother.”