..Aiyedatiwa, Ibidapo, Aderounmu, others praise his humanitarian efforts

..as Group advocates national honour for him

At the grand finale of his 80th birthday celebration, Sen. Bode Olajumoke expressed heartfelt gratitude to the organizers of various activities held in his honor. The renowned philanthropist, who turned 80 on July 1, was celebrated through events in Lagos, his hometown of Imeri, and Akure.

The grand finale, hosted by friends and associates at The Dome in Akure, Ondo State’s capital, saw Olajumoke thanking Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and other well-wishers for their support and affection. Reflecting on the celebrations, Olajumoke remarked, “I have seen my funeral service before I die. I’m overwhelmed,” marveling at the love shown to him.

Olajumoke seized the occasion to urge the state governor to prioritize the rehabilitation of roads leading to the Irekari axis of Ose Local Government, specifically the Afo-Oba road. He emphasized that the current state of these roads makes travel home difficult for residents.

Governor Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Chief Olayide Adelami, praised Olajumoke’s charitable nature, describing him as an exemplary leader and dedicated public servant.

He highlighted Olajumoke’s significant contributions to the development of Ondo State and Nigeria, noting, “A well decorated political leader, Baba Olajumoke is a man of refreshing candour and philanthropic giving, who has touched many lives directly and by promoting policies that ensured no one was left behind, as he sponsored a bill that was signed into law to provide wheelchair access for the physically challenged in public buildings”.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the planning committee, Rt. Hon. Victor Olabimtan, praised Sen. Bode Olajumoke as an embodiment of simplicity who deserves immense celebration and lasting recognition.

He noted that the diverse political and religious backgrounds of the committee members underscored Olajumoke’s role as a unifier and selfless leader. Olabimtan announced that, starting from the celebrant’s next birthday, proceeds from the celebration would be used to support the poor through an endowment fund designed to outlive Olajumoke.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers in Ondo State, the Olubaka of Oka Akoko, Oba Adebori Adeleye, lauded Olajumoke’s dedication to the people and his generous spirit. He recalled Olajumoke’s tenure as the Pro-chancellor of Adekunle Ajasin University Akungba Akoko, where he laid a solid foundation through infrastructure and social facilities, and described his lifestyle as worthy of emulation.

The Chairman of the league of Imams in the Southwest, Alhaji Ahmed Aladesawe, described Olajumoke as a straightforward and devoted philanthropist whose kindness lifts people’s spirits, saying ” nobody visits him in a sorrowful condition without returning happy”.

The event’s Chairman and former deputy governor of Ondo State, Ambassador Omolade Oluwateru, praised Olajumoke for his integrity and unique approach to politics.

Hon. Demola Ijabiyi, founder of the Liberal platform, highlighted Olajumoke’s impactful projects and urged the governor to recommend him for a national honor.

The South-West Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party, Olorogun Eddy Olafeso, commended Olajumoke for teaching promptness and punctuality.

Prof. Olu Aderounmu described Olajumoke as intellectually gifted without arrogance, with a deep passion for the less privileged, and prayed for him to continue his service to humanity for many more years.

Dr. Bode Ayorinde, Pro-chancellor and Board Chairman of Achievers University, praised Olajumoke’s leadership and recounted the scholarships he provided for orphans to study at the university during his tenure as the first Pro-Chancellor.

The founder of Ero College of Education highlighted Olajumoke’s role in establishing the institution and sponsoring two students from each local government of Ondo State for three academic sessions, and monitored their academic performances throughout.

Former Chairman of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Mr. Jide Adeniyi, described Olajumoke as a genuine leader who offers advice and consultancy freely.

The event’s highlights included the launch of the Bode Olajumoke Education Endowment Trust Fund and the unveiling of Olajumoke’s autobiography, “A Life of Grace,” with Dr. Rotimi Ibidapo serving as the Chief Launcher.

Story credit: Mary Agidi