The Kwara political community, Federal Polytechnic Offa, and associates across Nigeria have been thrown into deep mourning following the shocking death of Otunba AbdulGaniyu Zubair, popularly known as Ganzy, a prominent APC chieftain and respected political figure from Kwara South.
According to reliable sources, Otunba Ganzy was hale and hearty earlier in the morning and had gone to the Jabi Recreation Park in Abuja, where he regularly engaged in table tennis and other recreational activities.
He reportedly collapsed suddenly while playing table tennis, and although those present made frantic efforts to revive him but effort did not yield as passed away before getting to hospital.
Janaiza was held at the National Mosque, Abuja, after Asr prayer, followed by immediate burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
The Federal Polytechnic Offa, where the late politician served as a member of the Governing Council, issued an official statement describing his death as “sudden and shocking.” The statement, signed by the Registrar, Soko G. O., noted that Otunba Ganzy’s contributions to the institution were invaluable. The Polytechnic praised his humility, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to institutional and national development. He was recently honoured with the chieftaincy title of Akinrogun of Irese Okoland, further cementing his reputation as a respected leader and community builder.
Friends and political associates across Kwara and beyond have also expressed deep sorrow. Williams Adeleye, a close friend and former aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, said Ganzy’s death had created a void that “can never be filled.” Adeleye recounted their 15-year friendship, describing him as a confidant, an unwaveringly loyal associate, and a pillar in every political movement they undertook. He also recalled Ganzy’s sacrifice during the 2019 Otoge struggle, where he shelved his own political ambition for the collective interest of the Kwara political reform movement.
The late Otunba Ganzy was a well-known grassroots mobiliser and a former House of Representatives candidate under the Social Democratic Party (SDP). He was also the Chairman of the Table Tennis Club at Jabi Recreation Park, a role that reflected his passion for community engagement and recreational sports. Political associates in the APC Oke-Ero chapter described him as a dedicated party man whose commitment to community development and political progress stood out.
Otunba AbdulGaniyu Zubair is survived by his wife, children, and extended family. Family, friends, and institutions across the country say his death is an irreparable loss and a major blow to political leadership and community development in Kwara South. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
