Otunba Oriade: Celebrating Distinguished, Endowed Ijebu Icon @ 50

There’s an adage that says, "Charity begins at home – 'Ile la ti n ko eso rode'. This timeless Yoruba wisdom perfectly reflects the Omoluabi virtues that Otunba Ayo Osisanya embodies. His approach to life, leadership, and relationships speaks volumes of his deeply rooted good character and values.

I came to know Otunba through my siblings who had spoken highly of him, and true to their words, he has since shown exemplary human relations beyond imagination.

Despite the generational gap between us, Otunba welcomed me like family. He is indeed a man of many parts, an encourager, a man of depth and integrity, and someone who treasures relationships above all else.

In the cherished Ijebu tradition of honouring its distinguished sons and daughters, Otunba Oriade stands tall. As the Asiwaju of Egbe Bobayegun Okunrin Akile-Ijebu, his contributions to the community are both impactful and inspiring. His role and influence cannot be overstated.

Ijebu people are renowned for their excellence in all areas of human endeavour; politics, education, commerce, culture, and social life. Within this context, Asiwaju Oriade, as he is fondly called, stands as a symbol of what it means to uphold tradition while championing progress. 

He is a true son of the soil rooted in the rich heritage of Ijebu, yet open-minded in leadership and service.

As Otunba Osisanya celebrates his golden jubilee, I proudly join Ijebus across the globe to honour a remarkable icon, a disciplinarian with a passion for excellence and cultural pride. "Baba Kekere", as some call him, is a man graced with a golden touch and a heart full of humility.

On this special milestone, I pray for God’s continued blessings upon his life, blessings that he has so generously extended to the less privileged and those around him. May his best days still lie ahead, and may he never know a better yesterday.

Happy 50th Birthday To my Egbon, Otunba Ayo Osisanya

I celebrate you, dear Asiwaju.

God bless you as always Sir.

Oluseun Oduneye
Editor, Global Issues Communication