By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Former Ogun State governors, Chief Olusegun Osoba and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, alongside the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, on Friday paid tribute to former Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye, Prof. Afolabi Soyode, during the celebration of his 85th birthday and the unveiling of his book, Abeokuta Club: The Making of a Life President.

Speaking on behalf of Chief Osoba, former member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Adekunle Adeyemi, described Prof. Soyode as a distinguished scholar, administrator and community leader whose contributions have impacted Egbaland and Ogun State.

“I heartily rejoice with the erudite scholar and former Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye. Prof. Soyode is, without doubt, a complete gentleman and a community leader who has consistently sought the best for Egbaland and Ogun State,” he said.

Adeyemi also prayed for continued good health and long life for the octogenarian.

Former Governor Ibikunle Amosun congratulated Prof. Soyode and his wife, attributing the celebrant’s accomplishments to years of dedication and family support.

“There is no way I can congratulate you without also congratulating Mummy. Behind every successful man is a supportive partner, and today we celebrate both of you for a life of remarkable accomplishment and dedicated service,” Amosun said.

He described Prof. Soyode as one of Ogun State’s respected elder statesmen, noting that he had served with diligence and integrity in every responsibility entrusted to him.

“Whenever we see distinguished elders like Professor Soyode, we are reminded of the standards of excellence that built our institutions and our society. Those standards were founded on integrity, discipline, hard work and commitment to duty,” he said.

Amosun prayed that Prof. Soyode would continue to enjoy good health and many more years of service.

The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, also congratulated the former vice-chancellor, describing his life as one marked by service in academia, leadership and community development.

“Attaining such a ripe age is indeed a great blessing and worthy of celebration. Yours has been an exemplary life of remarkable achievements and service to humanity,” the monarch said.

Oba Gbadebo highlighted Prof. Soyode’s academic career, from his years at the University of Ibadan to his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University.

He also acknowledged his contributions to Egbaland and the Abeokuta Club, where he serves as Life President.

“You have always been a strong pillar wherever you find yourself. Your dedication to Egbaland and your service to Abeokuta Club have earned you the respect of many,” the monarch said.

He prayed for God’s continued grace, good health and strength for Prof. Soyode and his wife.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Otunba Wale Soyode commended the former vice-chancellor for his contributions to the growth of Abeokuta Club and his service in education and community leadership.

He said Prof. Soyode had impacted many lives through teaching, public service and institution building.

“As a teacher, he shaped lives; as an economist, he contributed to public discourse; and as a community leader, he devoted himself to building institutions that continue to serve society,” he said.

Otunba Soyode prayed for the elder statesman’s continued good health and many more years of service.

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