4th April, 2025
Taiwo Ogunniyi
It was an atmosphere of deep reflection and heartfelt tributes on Thursday as dignitaries, former colleagues, family and friends gathered at the Banquet Hall, Ilorin, to honour the late Mrs Susan Modupe Oluwole, former Head of Service in Kwara State, whose legacy of dedication and integrity continues to resonate within the state’s civil service.
Representing Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the wake, Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi described Mrs Oluwole as an extraordinary public servant who embodied the core values of diligence, responsibility and selfless service.
“Her passing is not just a loss to her family, but to the entire state and everyone who had the privilege of working with her,” the Governor stated.
“Her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.”
Governor AbdulRazaq noted that Mrs Oluwole, who rose through the ranks to become the Head of Service, was known for her professionalism, wisdom and deep understanding of the system, describing her contributions as “indelible.”
Former Head of Service, Alhaji Salman Adelodun Ibrahim, recalled her unwavering loyalty and dedication, noting that she played a key role in reforming the civil service during her seven-year tenure.
“Dupe, as we fondly called her, was a go-getter who worked with transparency and discipline. Her tenure brought significant improvement to the management of government quarters and civil service operations,” Ibrahim added.
Prince Ayo Fagbemi, Chairman of the Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries in the state, also paid glowing tribute to the late Oluwole, describing her as a symbol of professionalism whose leadership was rooted in equity and godliness.
“Her exit is painful, especially coming so soon after her retirement. We had looked forward to seeing her continue to impact lives beyond public service,” he said.
Old schoolmates, including Adefunke Oyinloye and Opeyemi Oladipupo of the Saint Clare’s Anglican Girls’ Grammar School Class of ’82, spoke fondly of her brilliance, humility and excellent service delivery, while Barrister Rotimi Bello, speaking on behalf of the family, thanked the state government and all well-wishers for their support.
He said Mrs Oluwole would be remembered not only for her contributions to the state but also for the unity she fostered within her family and among peers.
As Kwara bids farewell to one of its finest bureaucrats, the overwhelming consensus remains that Modupe Oluwole’s life was one of service, honour and quiet but impactful leadership.
