Osoba, Amosun, Alake Commend Ex-OOU VC Soyode's Legacy at 85

Prominent figures, including former Ogun State chief executives Olusegun Osoba and Ibikunle Amosun, as well as the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, have lauded Professor Afolabi Soyode, the erstwhile Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, highlighting him as an embodiment of integrity, exceptional achievement, and dedicated service. These tributes were delivered on Friday in Abeokuta during a dual event marking Professor Soyode's 85th birthday and the public presentation of his new book, "Abeokuta Club: The Making of a Life President."

Chief Olusegun Osoba, whose remarks were conveyed by former federal legislator Adekunle Adeyemi, characterized Professor Soyode as an erudite academic and a distinguished community figure whose efforts have significantly benefited both Egbaland and the wider Ogun State. Osoba stated, “Prof. Soyode is a complete gentleman and a community leader par excellence who wants the very best for Egbaland and the state as a whole.” He further affirmed that Professor Soyode continues to be “a beacon of exemplary leadership and selfless service,” offering prayers for his sustained good health to witness many more years.

Senator Ibikunle Amosun, in his address, extended felicitations to the former vice-chancellor and his spouse, acknowledging their journey marked by extraordinary accomplishments and unwavering commitment. The former governor remarked, “There is hardly any responsibility entrusted to Professor Soyode that he did not carry out with excellence. He discharged every assignment diligently, conscientiously and with integrity.”

Amosun further asserted that Professor Soyode personifies the core principles of integrity, discipline, honesty, and diligence, which are foundational to robust institutions. He expressed hopes for Soyode to reach his centenary birthday, continuing to offer valuable guidance and mentorship. Similarly, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Gbadebo, described Professor Soyode’s existence as a testament to significant achievements across academia, leadership roles, and community contributions.

Oba Gbadebo recounted Professor Soyode’s distinguished career trajectory, from his beginnings at the University of Ibadan to his tenure as Vice-Chancellor of Olabisi Onabanjo University, where he was recognized as the top vice-chancellor among all state universities in 2007. The esteemed monarch also lauded Professor Soyode’s profound dedication to Egbaland, highlighting how this commitment led to his conferment with the title of Aare Olu Omo of Egbaland and the singular honour of serving as Life President of the Abeokuta Club. Oba Gbadebo concluded, “You make us immensely proud as an illustrious son of Egbaland.”

Representing the Soyode family, Otunba Wale Soyode characterized the 85-year-old celebrant as an impactful educator who molded destinies, an economist whose insights shaped public policy, and a devoted community leader dedicated to establishing lasting institutions. He offered prayers for the elder statesman’s ongoing good health and vitality, enabling him to continue his service to society.