The Somolu Local Government Secretariat was engulfed in an atmosphere of mourning and reflection on Wednesday, July 24, 2025, as political heavyweights, community leaders, friends, and family gathered to pay their last respects to the late Secretary to the Local Government (SLG), Hon. Dele Afolabi, whose sudden demise has thrown the Somolu political landscape into grief.
Leading the array of dignitaries who came to honour the late grassroots mobilizer and loyal party man were the Chairman-elect of Somolu Local Government, Hon. Abiodun Ashimi; immediate past Chairman, Hon. Abdul-Hammed Salawu, fondly called Dullar; former Council Chairman, Hon. Gbolahan Orekoya; and political stalwart, Hon. William Lawanson (Hon. Willy). Their presence signified the magnitude of the loss and the profound impact the deceased had on the political and administrative framework of the local government.
In his tribute, Chairman-elect Hon. Ashimi described Dele Afolabi as “a dependable team player and a passionate servant of the people,” noting that his contributions to grassroots governance in Somolu were invaluable. “Dele Afolabi was a pillar in the house of progressives. His loyalty, humility, and competence were second to none. His death is not only a personal loss but a collective tragedy for Somolu,” Ashimi said.
Hon. Dullar, who worked closely with the late SLG during his tenure as Council Chairman, was visibly shaken as he paid an emotional tribute. He praised Afolabi’s dedication, honesty, and unwavering commitment to duty. “Dele was not just my SLG; he was my brother, a trusted confidant who served with integrity and grace. His memory will remain evergreen in the history of Somolu politics,” he stated.
Also speaking, Hon. Orekoya recalled Afolabi’s consistent loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his decades-long political activism that earned him respect across party lines. “He was a man of the people who believed in community-first leadership. Somolu has truly lost one of its finest,” he said.
Hon. Willy, a key member of the APC campaign structure, noted Afolabi’s significant role in political mobilization, describing him as “a grassroots engine room” who worked tirelessly to ensure electoral success for the party. “Dele’s contribution to the growth of our party is immeasurable. He was a silent achiever and a reliable partner in progress,” he noted.
Other party chieftains, council officials, youth leaders, and members of the community took turns to eulogize the late Afolabi, recalling his humility, open-door policy, and exemplary character. Tributes also poured in from traditional rulers and religious leaders who highlighted his respect for institutions and peace building efforts.
The event featured solemn prayers, the reading of condolence messages, and a moment of silence in honour of the late SLG. His family, represented by his wife and children, expressed appreciation for the massive turnout and the glowing tributes paid to their patriarch.
Late Hon. Dele Afolabi is survived by his wife, children, and a legacy of selfless service. His sudden death has not only created a vacuum in the Somolu political sphere but has also left the community reflecting on the virtues of leadership, humility, and service.
As preparations for his final burial rites commence, the people of Somolu continue to mourn a leader who gave his all to the development of his community and the growth of his political family.