Former Governor of Osun State and Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, on Thursday joined a host of distinguished Nigerians to celebrate elder statesman and former Secretary to the Government of the old Oyo State, Chief Shuaib Oyedokun, as he clocked 91.
The colourful event, held in Osogbo, also featured the unveiling of Oyedokun’s memoir and attracted an array of political leaders, traditional rulers, academics, religious leaders, business executives, family members and well-wishers from across the country.
Among those who honoured the nonagenarian were former Senate President Anyim Pius Anyim, former Speaker of the House of Representatives Patricia Etteh, National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru, former Osun State Governor Chief Bisi Akande, Emeritus Professor Olu Aina, Chairman of Peculiar Ultimate Concern, Engr. Abel Adeleke, and the APC governorship candidate in the August 15 Osun governorship election, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO).
In his remarks as chairman of the occasion, Emeritus Prof. Aina described Oyedokun as an outstanding administrator, a symbol of integrity and a committed nation-builder whose decades of service have earned him respect across the country.
He noted that the former top government official remains a shining example of principled leadership and urged younger generations to emulate his honesty, discipline, patriotism and dedication to public service.
Other speakers at the event also paid glowing tributes to Oyedokun, describing him as a seasoned administrator, accomplished public servant and respected political leader whose contributions to democratic governance and national development have stood the test of time.
They commended his years of meritorious service to the old Oyo State, Osun State and Nigeria, saying his unwavering commitment to justice, unity and good governance has endeared him to people across political, ethnic and religious divides.
The dignitaries further praised Oyedokun’s role in mentoring younger politicians and promoting peaceful coexistence, noting that his humility, wisdom and selfless service continue to inspire many Nigerians.
They prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the elder statesman, expressing optimism that he would celebrate many more milestones in good health.
One of the highlights of the celebration was the review of Oyedokun’s memoir by Professor Gabriel Babawale of the University of Lagos, who described the publication as an important contribution to Nigeria’s political history.
According to Babawale, the memoir chronicles the country’s democratic evolution and offers valuable lessons on governance, leadership and public administration, making it a useful resource for scholars, policymakers and future leaders.
Also at the event, the Council of American Peace Advocates (CAPA) presented Oyedokun with an award in recognition of his lifelong commitment to peace, exemplary leadership and selfless service to humanity.
Presenting the award, the organisation described the elder statesman as a man whose life reflects the enduring values of integrity, sacrifice and dedication to the common good.
The memoir was formally presented by Mr. Lateef Popoola of the Veteran Journalists Association (VJA), who urged current and aspiring public office holders to draw inspiration from Oyedokun’s legacy of ethical leadership and service.
In his response, Oyedokun thanked God for granting him long life and good health and expressed appreciation to the dignitaries, family members, friends and associates who joined him to celebrate the occasion.
He said the outpouring of love and recognition would encourage him to continue advocating peace, unity and good governance.
The event concluded with goodwill messages and prayers for the elder statesman’s continued health and longevity, as guests described his legacy of integrity, humility and dedicated public service as one worthy of emulation.
