Family, Friends Eulogise Adefuye at Funeral

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News Saturday, September 19th, 2015

BALTIMORE, MD (AFRICAN EXAMINER) – Several eulogies have started pouring in on the late Nigerian Ambassador to the United States, Prof. Adebowale Ibidapo Adefuye, who was buried in Lagos on Friday.

The funeral service, which held at the Cathedral Church of Christ, Marina, Lagos, had family members, friends, colleagues and sympathisers in attendance to mourn the late envoy. Among the dignitaries present at the occasion was Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, who described the late ambassador as one of the best brains Nigeria ever produced.

While paying tributes, the Vice Chancellor, University of Lagos, Prof. Rahman Bello, described the deceased as “a great Nigerian, a friend, colleague, mentor and research leader.”

Adefuye died on Thursday, August 27, 2015, few days before he was slated to leave his diplomatic post and head home. He was 68.

A retired professor of History, he was appointed ambassador in 2010 by then-President Goodluck Jonathan. Over five years, he earned a reputation in Washington as a zealous and fearless advocate for Jonathan’s often-shaky administration.

Speaking at the burial, his daughter, Bunmi Adefuye, said “I thought this would happen when I’m in my 50s or 60s. But even if it happened that time, it would still be this painful.

“Daddy taught us to love God and serve Him with all our heart. He told us to be the best we could be academically and professionally. He also advised us to be charitable. He was very generous and kind man. We will miss him.”

Punch