The immediate past Minister of Mines and Steel Development and Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Kayode Fayemi, has commiserated with the Aboderin family and the Punch Newspapers over the death of the Chairman, PUNCH Nigeria Limited, Mr. Gbadebowale Wayne  Aboderin.

Aboderin, a noted sports enthusiast and philanthropist died on Wednesday, aged 60.

Dr Fayemi in a statement on Thursday described the news of Mr Aboderin’s death as quite shocking and devastating.

The APC Governorship candidate recalled his several meetings with the late Aboderin, before and after his emergence as Punch Chairman, describing him as a man of great humility, but ever bubbling with life and great ideas.

Fayemi said the late Aboderin further won his admiration after he took over the mantle of leadership at the Punch Newspaper and was able to sustain the newspaper as the flagship in the media industry.

“The death of this amiable gentleman is, to say the least, saddening, as he never showed any sign of ill health the last time we met. Again that is the irony of life and a further proof of the sad reality that death can knock at the door at any time.

“Our condolences go to his immediate family, the larger Aboderin family and the Punch Newspaper organisation in general. We shall miss his cheerfulness and generous spirit.

“Our prayer is that God will keep, comfort and strengthen the entire family.”