For me, the Okun nation, Kogi state, the country and every person who met, read or heard about the death of Flying Officer Arotile Tolulope, it's been a time of sadness, shock and pain.
More painful is that our very dear Flying Officer Arotile died at a time when her professional competence, capacities and capabilities are being deployed, effectively and efficiently, to bring peace and order to a part of the country towards national growth and development. As an operational pilot at the Minna based "Operation GAMA AIKI" she contributed immensely to efforts by the Nigerian Airforce to ward off the activities of armed bandits and other criminal elements across states in the North Central zone.
From her formative years through secondary to tertiary education, military training and professional career, Flying Officer Arotile Tolulope was an embodiment of brain, excellence, courage and will-power. At all times, in every situation, she thrives, conquers where others fear to thread. As a symbol of determination, resourcefulness, commitment and hard work, she did not only weather through varied storms, challenges and difficulties, but she always comes out victorious, successful and triumphant.
Indeed, it is very painful that the Okun nation, Kogi state and the country lost a pace setter, trail blazer, natural achiever and role model, whose passion to her profession, commitment to the nation and strong desire for true nation building, growth and development was confirmed by the Chief of Air Staff; Air Vice Marshal Siddique Abubakar, in his tribute.
As we mourn the untimely death of this great daughter, sister, friend and colleague; Flying Officer Arotile Tolulope, as humans, we recognise the truth that as creations of the Most High, He alone can call us home whenever He chooses. It is our believe that God Almighty has called her back home.
However, we take solace in the fact that, though Flying Officer Arotile Tolulope died at a very very young age, but she lived a fruitful life. Within a short time on heart, she recorded feats that are incomparable. She made history as the first ever female combat helicopter pilot in the Nigerian Armed Forces and arguably in Africa. She was one of the successful female graduands of the Nigerian Defence Academy's Regular Course 64 who were commissioned as officers in September 2017.
It is my sincere prayers that God Almighty will grant the parents; Engr. and Mrs. Arotile, her siblings, the entire Arotile Family, as well as the people of Iffe community, Okun nation and Kogi state the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss, Amen.
HON. YUSUF TAJUDEEN (TEEJAY)
Member representing Kabba-Bunu/Ijumu Federal Constituency
National Assembly
Abuja.
Wednesday, July 15th, 2020.
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