President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound sorrow over the death of Sunny Ajose, a former Lagos State Head of Service and respected elder statesman.
Ajose died on Thursday at the age of 78.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu conveyed heartfelt condolences to the Lagos State Government, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the people of Badagry. He described Ajose as a “unifying force” whose leadership left an indelible mark on the state.
“He was an astute administrator and dogged civil servant,” Tinubu noted, reflecting on their close working relationship during his tenure as Lagos State governor.
Appointed as Lagos State Head of Service in 2004, Ajose was instrumental in implementing reforms that enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of the state’s civil service. Even after retirement, he remained a key partner in development and a staunch advocate for good governance.
Ajose’s contributions extended beyond his administrative role. As an apex leader of the APC in Badagry and the constituency’s sole representative in the Lagos State Governance Advisory Council, he championed initiatives that improved lives and bolstered the governance framework in the state.
Born on February 10, 1946, in Badagry, Ajose earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and Science from the University of Illinois, Chicago, in 1973, and a master’s degree in Social Science from Governors State University in 1974. He joined the Lagos Civil Service in 1979 where he rose through the ranks to become Head of Service known for his innovative and dedicated approach to public service.
In his tribute, Tinubu prayed for strength and comfort for Ajose’s family during this difficult time, while asking for the late elder statesman’s soul to rest in eternal peace.