By: Olajide Toriola
Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, has condoled with the family, friends and associates of Chief Adebayo Faleti over the death of the ace broadcaster, writer, poet and actor.
Chief Faleti died on Sunday at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan at the age of 86.
In a statement by the governor’s Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka, he described the passing away of Chief Faleti as shocking and devastating.
Ajimobi, who said he received the news of Pa Faleti’s death with shock and disbelief, described the deceased as a repository of Yoruba culture and tradition, and a good ambassador of the state.
Ajimobi said, “Even though Baba Faleti died at the ripe age of 86, his passing away is very unfortunate, disheartening and sad. Part of the things that endeared him to my heart was his simple lifestyle, his dislike for material wealth and commitment to the progress of the Yoruba race.
“Instead of allowing his humble background to serve as a barrier for his career progression, Chief Faleti defied all odds and ensured that he trained himself up to the university level even at a time when education was not too attractive.
“As a pioneer staff of the first television station in Africa, Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), he exhibited his dexterity in broadcasting, while he imparted morals in the younger generation through his various books, poems and acting.
“It was in recognition of his contributions to the development of Yoruba culture and tradition that the Federal Government conferred on him the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).”
Ajimobi expressed the regret that with Chief Faleti’s demise, the state had lost one of its cultural icons who had brought fame and honour to the state through his various activities in broadcasting, publishing and film industry.
He however called on members of his immediate family, friends and associates to celebrate rather than mourn him, having lived a fulfilled life which, he said, was worthy of emulation.
