Christopher Ayeni, former Deputy Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, tragically lost his life in a car accident near Igbaja Junction in the Ajase-Ipo area, Irepodun Local Government, Kwara State, on Thursday morning. The accident, attributed to overspeeding and a lapse in concentration, took place around 10:00 am, approximately 500 meters from the junction.
According to Basambo Olayinka, Public Relations Officer for the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Kwara, Ayeni, alongside four other passengers, sustained serious injuries. Ayeni later succumbed to his injuries at the Ajase Ipo Cottage Hospital, despite the efforts made to save him.
Ayeni was a prominent figure in Kwara State politics, known for his roles across multiple government offices. He served as the Commissioner for Agriculture, Deputy Chief of Staff, and held the position of Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture. His recent political contributions included his involvement as a candidate in the 2023 House of Representatives election under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), though he later defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the election.
In response to Ayeni’s passing, APC Kwara State Chairman Prince Sunday Fagbemi expressed profound sorrow, calling the incident a substantial loss for the state. Describing Ayeni as a dedicated public servant, Fagbemi highlighted his recent role as Chairman of the Governing Council at Kwara State College of Health Technology in Offa. Fagbemi noted, “CT Ayeni will be remembered for his forthrightness, particularly his impactful role in the last local government elections. His commitment to public service was unwavering throughout his lifetime.”
Hon. Awelewa Olawale, Chairman of Ekiti Local Government, also mourned Ayeni’s passing, describing him as a “core progressive, dependable politician, and community leader.” Ayeni’s dedication was evident in his involvement in the recent Kwara State Local Government Council elections, where he led campaign and mobilization efforts.
Items recovered from the scene included two Android phones, now with the FRSC, and two bags, currently held by the Nigeria Police at the Ajase-Ipo Division.
As tributes pour in, Ayeni is remembered for his remarkable contributions to Kwara State, his community of Isapa, and the APC, where he played a crucial role in mobilizing support in Ekiti Local Government. He leaves behind a legacy of forthrightness, dedication, and public service. His passing is a significant loss to his family, community, and the entire Kwara South region.
