Former Kwara Deputy Speaker Christopher Ayeni dies in car accident

Former Deputy Speaker of the Kwara State House of Assembly, Christopher Ayeni, died on Thursday following a car accident near Igbaja Junction, Ajase-Ipo, in Irepodun Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred around 10:00 am, was attributed to speeding and lack of concentration, according to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

Basambo Olayinka, Public Relations Officer for the Kwara State FRSC, confirmed the details in a statement, noting that five people were involved in the accident. All five sustained injuries of varying severity, with Ayeni later succumbing to his injuries at a local hospital in Ajase-Ipo. Items recovered from the scene included two Android phones and two bags, now held by the FRSC and Nigeria Police, respectively.

Ayeni, a recent House of Representatives candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) before defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC), was widely respected for his political career and community involvement.

APC Kwara State Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Ayeni, fondly known as “CT Ayeni.” He praised Ayeni’s contributions to the state, including his roles as Commissioner for Agriculture, Senior Special Assistant on Agriculture, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Secretary of the APC, among others. Ayeni also held the title of Akogun of Isapa Land in Ekiti Local Government Area.

“C.T. Ayeni’s dedication and forthrightness, especially evident in his recent efforts during the local government elections, are a testament to his commitment to public service,” said Fagbemi. “His loss is felt deeply across Kwara South, particularly among his family, Isapa community, and the APC family.”

Hon. Awelewa Olawale, Chairman of Ekiti Local Government, also mourned Ayeni’s passing, describing him as a “core progressive and dependable leader” who played a key role in the recent Kwara State Local Government Councils’ elections as the Director of Campaigns and Mobilization.

Both Fagbemi and Olawale extended condolences to Ayeni’s family, the Isapa community, and the people of Ekiti Local Government Area, praying for strength for all affected by his passing.