Important guests and dignitaries from all walks of life -and from far and near, have descended on the city of Akure, Ondo State capital today for the grand 70th birthday of one the iconic sons of the land, Hon Ifedayo Abegunde. They have joined family members, friends, kinsmen and well-wishers in celebrating with the Executive Director; Corporate Services of Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
Abena, as the accomplished engineer and politician is fondly called, had joined the septuagenarians’ club back in January. On the milestone occasion well-wishers, including the President and other dignitaries across the country heaped encomiums on him for his life accomplishments and contributions to mankind. The well-loved grassroots Akure man however picked the June 28 date for the big party.
24 hours before the celebration, Hon. Abegunde received the big honour from his kingdom as he was installed as the Asiwaju of Akure Kingdom (alongside his adorable wife, Chief Mrs Olajumoke Abegunde as Yeye Asiwaju of Akureland) by the the Deji of Akure, HRM, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.
At the installation ceremony, Oba Aladelusi said Abegunde and his wife were conferred with the titles of Asiwaju and Yeye Asiwaju for their contribution to the development of the town and the state when he served as a member of the House of Representatives and Secretary to the State Government. Oba Aladelusi said Abegunde has been performing the role of a leader from time immemorial.
In his response, Abegunde thanked the monarch for conferring on him the chieftaincy title. He promised to bring development to the town and help the monarch unite the people.
The former lawmaker said he would continue to do good for the people of Akure, the state capital, and for the Akure-speaking people, irrespective of social status and affiliations, saying he has become the father to all with his new chieftaincy title.
Born on January 10, 1955, Hon. Abegunde -who is also fondly called ‘For The People’ is a symbol of greatness and success to his kinsmen. He is well-loved for who he is. His alias came from what he stands for -being there always for the people. His philanthropy is widely acclaimed by all.
All roads lead to The DOME in Akure for the grand party with king of world beats, King Sunny Ade on the bandstand.