Ayonic Celebrates Osogbo Elders Council Chairman, Adeleke, At 80

The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Osogbo State Constituency in the 2027 Osun State House of Assembly election, Hon. Abdulahi Ayodeji Olaiya, popularly known as Ayonic, has congratulated the Chairman of the Osogbo Elders Council, Professor Benjamin Adeleke, on his 80th birthday.

Olaiya, in a felicitation message personally signed and released on Tuesday in Osogbo, described the octogenarian as a rare gem, a distinguished intellectual, a father figure and a custodian of wisdom whose contributions to education, leadership and community development remain invaluable.

The lawmaker hopeful said Adeleke’s life had exemplified selfless service, intellectual excellence and commitment to the advancement of Osogbo and its people.

According to him, the celebrant’s impact as an educationist and community leader has extended beyond Osogbo, having mentored generations of students who have distinguished themselves in various professional fields across the world.

“On behalf of myself and the entire team, I congratulate our Baba and icon, Professor Benjamin Adeleke, on his 80th birthday.

“Sir, you are not just a grandfather, but a living library of history, culture and leadership. Your life is a testament to the fact that greatness is not measured by titles but by service. You remain a beacon of light in Osogbo and beyond,” he said.

Olaiya further described Adeleke as a distinguished scholar whose commitment to education had positively shaped the lives of many individuals who are now professors, doctors, lawyers, politicians and community leaders.

“As a scholar, you taught us that education is the greatest inheritance. You raised generations of students who today are professors, doctors, lawyers, politicians and community leaders across the world. Your pen has shaped minds, and your wisdom has shaped destinies,” he added.

Speaking on the celebrant’s role in the Osogbo Elders Council, the APC candidate described him as a voice of reason and a peacemaker whose leadership had continued to uphold the dignity, unity and cultural heritage of the community.

He also acknowledged Adeleke’s influence on his personal understanding of leadership, noting that the octogenarian had remained a source of inspiration and mentorship.

“As your son, I have learnt from your records that leadership is service, and power is a trust. Today, I celebrate you not just as an elder, but as my mentor and my icon,” Olaiya stated.

He prayed for God’s continued grace upon the celebrant, wishing him long life, sound health and many more years of peace, joy and fulfilment.

“May your remaining years be filled with peace, joy and honour. May you live to see Osogbo greater. Happy 80th birthday, sir,” he said.