Ibadan-born businessman and Chairman/Chief Executive of Oyo-Si-Maa-Dun Foundation, Mr. Abisoye Fagade, has described the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Olasupo Adetunji (Aje Ogugunnuso 1) as a unique father and amiable personality who lived a fulfilled life.
Oba Adetunji joined his ancestors at the early hours of Sunday January 2, 2022 at the University College Hospital, Ibadan. He became the 41st paramount ruler of Ibadanland on March 4, 2016 as he succeeded Oba Samuel Odulana (Odugade 1) and he reigned for about six years.
Fagade, in a condolence message which was contained in a statement issued by his media aide, Comrade Kehinde Idowu, lamented the passage of Oba Saliu Adetunji who, according to him, would be sorely missed by not only the people of Ibadanland but also the whole of Yoruba race.
“Oba Adetunji was everything Ibadanland needed at his time. He epitomised humility, wisdom and passion which endeared him to all and sundry. PopoYemoja, his family Palace in Ibadan, got enlivened with royalty and finesse immediately he mounted the throne in 2016 and the entire Ibadanland was better for it.
“During the reign of Oba Adetunji, an average Ibadan son and daughter had access to Kabiyesi who was a father to all. He was always there for us as he would not turn down invitation to grace occasions personally in order to encourage and honour his subjects. This was in addition to his readiness to assist everyone in special ways as a true father he was.
“It is on record that Oba Adetunji was a successful entrepreneur who traverse the business world like a colossus despite all odds. He was one of the pioneer pillar of the entertainment industry in West Africa as he was able to promote many burden talents who later became legend in the musical world. Another fantastic thing about him was that he never compromised the education of his children and this yielded the desired results as he could boast of many graduates and fine academics.
“Therefore, we shall be right to submit that Oba Adetunji lived a fulfilled life and died an icon of royalty, fatherhood and leadership. We also use this medium to commiserate with the entire Alusekere Family of PopoYemoja, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes as well as all sons and daughters of Ibadanland on the demise of our revered monarch as we pray God Almighty to grant him eternal rest.” Fagade stated.
