Tragedy Strikes Nigeria’s Political Sphere: INEC Commissioner and Ex-Anambra Deputy Speaker Die
In a somber turn of events, Nigeria’s political landscape has been rocked by the sudden passing of two prominent figures: Olaniyi Ijalaye, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ogun State, and Rt. Hon. Harford Oseke, the former Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly.
INEC Mourns the Loss of Olaniyi Ijalaye
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced the demise of its REC for Ogun State, Olaniyi Ijalaye, in a statement released by National Commissioner and chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun. Ijalaye passed away on Monday after attending the regular quarterly meeting of the Commission in Abuja.
Born in 1958 in Owo, Ondo State, Ijalaye was a distinguished legal professional who graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Law (LL.B) from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1982. He was called to the Nigerian Bar (B.L) in 1983 and later obtained a Master’s degree in Law (LL.M) from the same University in 1995.
Ijalaye assumed duty as REC on February 23, 2022, and was known for his integrity, hard work, and conscientiousness. The Commission extended its heartfelt condolences to his immediate family and prayed for eternal rest.
Former Anambra Deputy Speaker, Harford Oseke, Dies Suddenly
In a tragic incident, Rt. Hon. Harford Oseke, the former Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, passed away on Monday while engaging in his regular exercise routine at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the state capital. Despite efforts to revive him, Oseke was pronounced dead shortly after the incident.
Born in August 1960, Oseke hailed from Umuawulu in the Awka South local government area of Anambra State. He was a learned scholar with a degree in law and had recently completed a Ph.D. in Public Administration. Oseke was a prominent figure in the freight forwarding industry in Port Harcourt and was actively involved in the importation of fishing feeds into Nigeria.
Oseke’s political career was closely tied to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). He served as the Majority Leader and later ascended to the position of Deputy Speaker during Peter Obi’s tenure.
Despite his attempts to expand his political influence, Oseke faced defeat in his bid to represent Awka North and South federal constituency in the House of Representatives.
A devout Christian, Oseke was recognized as a Knight of St. Christopher. He is survived by his wife and children.
Nigeria Mourns the Loss of Two Dedicated Public Servants
The sudden passing of Olaniyi Ijalaye and Harford Oseke has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s political sphere. Their dedication to public service and contributions to the country’s development will be deeply missed. As the nation mourns the loss of these two distinguished individuals, their families, friends, and colleagues take comfort in their remarkable legacies.
