Obaseki Mourns Uncle, Dr. Clement Alile, Describes Him as Icon of Service and Excellence

Former Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his uncle, Dr. Clement Imuetinyan Alile, describing him as a man of “service, excellence, and unwavering commitment” to the development of Edo State and Nigeria.

In a condolence statement, Obaseki said Dr. Alile’s death was a profound loss to the Alile family, the veterinary profession, and the wider public service community.

He noted that the late veterinary surgeon was a pioneer in the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Veterinary Department, where he played a key role in establishing strong foundations for veterinary practice in the state. According to him, Dr. Alile’s work helped set professional standards that continue to guide veterinary services, including the development of ranches widely regarded as models of excellence.

Obaseki also highlighted the deceased’s public service career, recalling his tenure as Commissioner for Commerce and Industry under the administration of Colonel Jerry Useni, as well as his service as Secretary to the State Government under Governor John Odigie-Oyegun. He described him as a disciplined and principled administrator whose contributions left a lasting legacy.

The former governor further praised Dr. Alile’s engagement with the Veterinary Association of Nigeria, where he remained active in efforts to strengthen the profession and promote global standards.

Born on April 1, 1943, Dr. Alile was educated at Holy Trinity Grammar School, Sabongida-Ora, the University of Ibadan, and the University of California, Davis, where he obtained advanced degrees in veterinary medicine and specialized in comparative pathology and preventive veterinary medicine.

Obaseki said he would remember the late veterinarian for his wisdom, humility, and dedication to family and community, adding that his life reflected integrity and service to humanity.

He extended condolences to the Alile family, friends, and associates, praying for the peaceful repose of the deceased’s soul and strength for all those left behind.

The letter reads:

*Condolence Statement by H.E. Godwin Obaseki, on the Passing of Dr. Clement Imuetinyan Alile*

It is with a heavy heart and profound sense of loss that I mourn the passing of my dear uncle, Dr. Clement Imuetinyan Alile, an extraordinary man whose life was defined by service, excellence, and unwavering commitment to the advancement of our state and nation.

Dr. Alile, a proud scion of the Ogbeide-Oyo family, was a distinguished veterinary surgeon and a pioneer in the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Veterinary Department. Through his dedication and visionary leadership, he laid a solid foundation for veterinary medicine practice, setting standards that continue to inspire generations of professionals. His contributions ensured that veterinary services in the state attained global standards, with ranches established under his watch regarded among the very best of their kind.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Alile served the state with remarkable distinction in public office. As Commissioner for Commerce and Industry in the administration of Colonel Jerry Useni, and later as Secretary to the State Government under Governor John Odigie-Oyegun, he proved himself an astute, diligent, and principled administrator whose legacy of service remains indelible.

A veteran veterinary expert, Dr. Alile remained active at the highest levels of the Veterinary Association of Nigeria, where he continued to provide guidance and leadership aimed at repositioning the profession for global competitiveness. His intellectual depth, humility, and commitment to excellence earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues and mentees alike.

Born on April 1, 1943, to Pa James Usiomoifo Alile (JP) and Princess Annah Efionayi Alile (JP) (née Odia), both of blessed memory, Dr. Alile’s life was one of remarkable academic and professional achievement. From his early brilliance at Holy Trinity Grammar School, Sabongida-Ora, where he graduated with six distinctions, to earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Ibadan, and further advancing his expertise with two Master’s degrees from the University of California, Davis, he exemplified the pursuit of knowledge and excellence. His specialization in comparative pathology and preventive veterinary medicine established him as a respected epidemiologist of international repute.

On a personal note, I will forever cherish his wisdom, guidance, and the deep sense of pride he had for family and community. His life was a testament to integrity, discipline, and service to humanity.

While his passing leaves a void that cannot be filled, we take solace in the enduring legacy he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, service, and impact.

I extend my deepest condolences to the Alile family, friends, and associates. May the Almighty God grant his soul eternal rest and give us all the fortitude to bear this great loss.

Signed:

H.E. Godwin Obaseki

Governor, Edo State (2016-2024)