Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo State has described the death of a former Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Trust Fund (PTF), Chief Tayo Akpata, as a colossal loss.

 In a condolence letter addressed to Chief Olabisi Akpata, widow of the deceased, Governor Oshiomhole said Chief Akpata’s legacies will always stand him out as one of Nigeria’s greatest.

 Oshiomhole said: “it is with a very heavy heart that I write to commiserate with you and the entire family over the passing of your beloved husband and lifetime companion, Chief Tayo Akpata.  His demise is a colossal loss not only to Edo State, but indeed, the entire nation, which he served devotedly in several capacities, as an academician, educationist, administrator, businessman and philanthropist.

 “We, however, take solace in the knowledge that in passing on, Chief Akpata leaves behind a legacy that will forever stand to his credit and assure him of a lasting place of honour among Nigeria’s greatest public servants, particularly men of integrity.

 “Chief Tayo Akpata is undoubtedly one of Nigeria’s most cerebral and resourceful public servants, a national icon in his own right, who has established solid reputation for original thinking and an uncommon depth in policy articulation especially in relation to national development and public welfare.

“We in Edo State have fond memories of his contributions to our development efforts. Overall, in the respected Chief, I found a remarkably frank and patriotic elder statesman that was always deeply committed to the pursuit of a better Nigeria; a kind and humane gentleman of uncommon simplicity, humility and decency; and a person worthy of emulation.

 “We beseech our Heavenly Father to grant his soul a peaceful repose.  We also pray for God’s consoling grace on the family and the entire people of Edo State.”