It was a night of nostalgic memories on Wednesday as family and friends honoured late Sen. Olabiyi Durojaiye, a second Republic Senator, at an Evening of Worship and Tributes in Lagos.The gathering described Durojaiye, also a former Chairman of Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), as a loyal, hardworking and committed man who lovingly mentored those who came across him.
Durojaiye, a prominent National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) Chieftain and the Acting Leader of Afenifere Egbe Ilosiwaju Yoruba, died on Aug. 24, 2021 at the Federal Medical Centre, Ebute-Metta, Lagos at the age of 88.
Mrs Olubukola Ogunkanmi, the oldest surviving daughter of late Durojaiye, said: “My father was a hardworking and loving father who had the fear of God in him.
“He was a historian, a profound author, a great speaker and an orator. He was a positive thinker and integrity was his watchword,” she said.
Mr Babafemi Durojaiye, the youngest son, expressed sadness at the passing on of the father adding that he would be greatly missed by all.
“My father was one who loved both his nuclear and extended family and never left any stone unturned in taking good care of all,” he said.
Mrs Mobolaji Balogun, the fourth child of the late NCC’s boss, said that her father was a serious minded person who was full of morals.
“We have lost a legend; the nation and especially Ogun State has lost a legend.”
Also, Mr Bayo Osiyemi, the Special Adviser to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Chieftaincy Matters, said the late Durojaiye was a leader of leaders, an inspirer and a motivator.
Osiyemi, who is a cousin to late Durojaiye, said he was exemplary and was well groomed and mentored by the deceased.
Similarly, Dr Onikepo Akande, Vice-President, Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry, described the late NADECO Chieftain as a great achiever.
“Baba was a man who turned many lives in great positive ways; his life was that of service and honour and he had kind words for all.”
Akande, who was also a former Minister of Industry, prayed God to grant the deceased eternal rest.
The event was graced by a host of top Government functionaries, corporate organisations, NADECO members, different representativesof ethnic groups, political stalwarts, lawmakers , friends and acquaintances of the late Durojaiye .
Among the dignitaries included Lagos State Deputy Govenor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat; Mrs Naimot Salako-Oyedele, Deputy Gov. of Ogun; former Military Gov. of Rivers, Zamani Lekwot; Dr Onikepo Akande, Vice President, Lagos Chambers of Commerce and Industry and Chief Olorogun Sunny Kuku. (NAN)
CAPTION Children, families and families at the Evening of Worship and Tributes in celebration of life of late Sen. Olabiyi Durojaiye, a second Republic Senator , a prominent National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) Chieftain and the Acting Leader of Afenifere Egbe Ilosiwaju Yoruba on Wednesday.