18/07/2026
PROF. MURITALA AWODUN MOURNS THE PASSING OF ALHAJI KOLAWOLE AMBALI AKANBI YUSUF (1941–2026)
It is with profound sorrow, yet with total submission to the will of Almighty Allah, that I received the news of the passing of Alhaji Kolawole Ambali Akanbi Yusuf, an illustrious son of Ifelodun Local Government Area, elder statesman, distinguished public servant, and one of the enduring pillars of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State, who departed this world earlier today at the age of 85.
Alhaji Kola Ambali Akanbi Yusuf belonged to a remarkable generation of leaders whose public service was guided by integrity, patriotism, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the common good. Throughout his long and distinguished career, he served with honour and left indelible footprints on the political, developmental, and institutional landscape of Kwara State.
As Commissioner for Works in Kwara State during the Second Republic (1979–1983), he played a pivotal role in laying the foundations for the state's infrastructural development. His vision and commitment to public works, road construction, and sustainable development contributed significantly to improving the lives of countless Kwarans. His achievements in office remain enduring reminders of what purposeful leadership can accomplish.
His passion for service transcended the executive arm of government. He later represented his people with distinction as a Member of the House of Representatives, where he brought wisdom, experience, and an unwavering commitment to the aspirations of his constituents. His voice was one of reason, moderation, and unity, always placing the interests of the people above personal considerations.
His wealth of experience and impeccable reputation also earned him appointment as a Member of the Governing Council of Kwara State University, where he later served as Acting Chairman of the Governing Council, providing thoughtful leadership and contributing immensely to the growth and strengthening of the institution.
In every assignment entrusted to him, he exemplified diligence, accountability, and excellence.
Within the Peoples Democratic Party, Alhaji Yusuf remained a loyal and committed party chieftain whose counsel was highly valued across generations. He was a stabilising force, a bridge-builder, and a respected political leader who believed firmly in dialogue, inclusiveness, and democratic ideals.
Younger politicians found in him a mentor, while his contemporaries respected him as a man of honour whose words carried wisdom and whose actions reflected conviction.
Beyond politics and public office, he was a devoted community leader, an exemplary family man, and a man whose humility, discipline, generosity, and simplicity endeared him to all who encountered him. He inspired many to see leadership not as a privilege to be enjoyed but as a sacred trust to be faithfully discharged in service to humanity.
Alh Kolawole Yusuf’s passing marks the end of an era. Kwara State has lost one of its finest public servants. Ifelodun Local Government Area has lost an illustrious ambassador. The Peoples Democratic Party has lost one of its dependable pillars. Nigeria has lost a patriotic leader whose life embodied service, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to nation-building.
While our hearts are heavy with grief, we take solace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind; a legacy built on integrity, selfless service, visionary leadership, and steadfast dedication to the progress of society. His contributions will remain permanently etched in the history of Kwara State and will continue to inspire generations of leaders yet unborn.
On behalf of my family, supporters, friends, and the entire Awodun Political Family, I extend my deepest condolences to his beloved family, the people of Ifelodun Local Government Area, the leadership and members of the Peoples Democratic Party, the Government and people of Kwara State, and everyone privileged to have known and worked with this exceptional statesman.
As we bid farewell to this great son of Kwara, we pray that Almighty Allah (SWT), in His infinite mercy, forgives his shortcomings, accepts his noble deeds as acts of Ibadah, admits him into Al-Jannatul Firdaus, and grants his family, friends, and all who mourn him the strength, comfort, and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
"Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed, to Him we shall return." (Qur'an 2:156).
May the soul of Alhaji Kolawole Ambali Akanbi Yusuf rest in eternal peace. Ameen.
Signed
Prof. Muritala Olakitan Awodun
PDP Kwara South Senatorial Agenda
18 July 2026
