BY BOLAJI AFOLABI

Poring over countless title-ideas for this article, the above emerged from the blues. Further checks about the subject confirmed the title as fit and proper. Describing Tunde Olusunle as a “prodigious wordsmith” is no exaggeration. In every of his work, he comes across as one who has vocabulary virtuosity, and endowed with narrative mastery. He displays unimaginable linguistic dexterity which is  intertwined with rhetorical flair, and imbued with creative vision. He carves the right words, and descriptive styles to paint beautiful scenery of complex and cumbersome situations. He crafts, engages, and suspends readers till the last words are happily soaked in. So, the title is both deliberate and intentional.

Dr. Tunde Olusunle, an Adjunct Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Abuja; which was recently re-named Yakubu Gowon University, is a man of many parts. He is a celebrated journalist; author; poet; communicator; and public speaker. Thus, he fits into all the fields where intellect, elucidation, and erudition coalesce. As a Columnist and Editor, he rose to the top of Journalism. In Literature, aside from having degrees, he has many published (and yet to be published) poems. He has written, co-written, edited, and co-edited over a dozen books; earning the Fellowship of the Association of Nigerian Authors, (FANA). In the last few years in academia, he is making exceptional accomplishments as a scholar, teacher, and researcher nurturing and mentoring a new generation of creative writers.

Sometime in the ’90s; during the Late General Sani Abacha regime, the writer went to the Saka Tinubu, Victoria Island, Lagos office of an elder brother; Ade-Ralph Olamife. After late lunch  at the classy canteen within the precincts of the Nigeria Telecommunications Limited, (NITEL) offices, the host extended an invitation. He said, “I want you to join me later today to meet a friend coming from Ikeja.” About 7 pm, we (Olamife, two other friends, and the writer) drove into Bishop Oluwole Street in Victoria Island, Lagos. The building was the Kogi state Liaison Office at that time. Surprisingly,  the august friend, who came with another person was already seated. After the exchange of pleasantries, the subject of this article was introduced by Olamife. Olusunle, who came with Alhaji Hakeem Bello; later Media Adviser to Babatunde Raji Fashola, (SAN), interacted freely with everyone. During the over two hours sit-out, Olusunle came across as a witty, lively, intelligent, and brilliant personality.

After this first meeting, the writer; through Olamife had subsequent interactions with Olusunle in Ikeja, Maryland, Ikoyi, and Victoria Island areas of Lagos. On every occasion, he exudes confidence and accessibility just as his humble and humane attributes come alive. After over a year of gap, largely due to the analogue communication state, and his relocation out of Lagos, Olamife broke the cheering news of Olusunle’s appointment as the Chief Press Secretary to the Kogi state Military Administrator; Col. Paul Omeruo. A few months later, the writer accompanied (as usual) Olamife; to visit Omeruo in Lokoja. By the way, both Olusunle and Olamife are mutual friends to the Administrator, fondly referred to as PUNO; initials of his names. During the two-week visit, Olusunle was the perfect host; he made every evening eventful and memorable. From discussions, many civil servants spoke glowingly about him. In and around the Lugard House; Administrator’s residence and office, as well as Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, (MDAs), his interpersonal relationships were eulogized. Succinctly, he could be described as a people’s man.

With the birth of democracy in May 1999, and the inauguration of Chief Olusegun Obasanjo as the President and Commander in Chief of Nigeria, the writer partially relocated to Abuja, hoping to explore opportunities in the new government. Watching the Nigerian Television Authority’s flagship news, the advert inviting people to the official launch of the new administration’s “Campaign for National Rebirth” sounded interesting. The writer made his way to the purposely-built Eagle Square venue of the event. As the programme progressed, the presence and importance of Olusunle was very evident. Events over, the writer swiftly moved from the stands down the platform to offer salutations to him. Pushed, shoved aside by over-zealous security operatives, it was a herculean task. At the point of giving up, an incident happened which diverted the attention of almost everyone. Leveraging on this, the writer made his way to the dais. Standing before Olusunle, he called the writer’s name, hugged, and exchanged pleasantries. Quickly, he said, “I’ll be out of Abuja for one week, meet me at Sheraton Hotels next week please.”

The writer’s visit to Sheraton Hotels marked the beginning of a relationship that has grown in leaps and bounds. Either at the Hotel’s Papillon Restaurant or the Poolside Bar, and Nicon Noga (now Transcorp) Hilton Hotel, the compassionate, empathetic, and accommodating attributes of Olusunle always come to the fore. They were unmistakable and unequivocal. During one of the numerous visits, he requested for the writer’s curriculum vitae; without saying what he wanted to do with it? It was discovered, early that he loves working behind the scenes. Beneficiaries of his advocacy, and benevolence only get to know when “food don done for eating.” One recalls on a visit to his 7th floor, Sheraton Hotels “temporary official residence” he beckoned on the writer to accompany him to somewhere. In a few minutes, we were in one of the suites at the Hilton Hotel, only to see Chief Onyema Ugochukwu, emeritus journalist, and public administrator walked in. With shock, suspense, and excitement written on one’s face, Olusunle introduced the writer saying, “Oga, this is one of our younger but silent supporters.”

A few months later, the import of that visit came to light. Through the persistent advocacy, and resilient prodding of Ugochukwu and Olusunle, President Obasanjo gave approval for major recruitments to strengthen the rebirth campaign, and public affairs management of the new government. So, the writer and other people benefitted from a forward-thinking proposal that was primarily targeted at media professionals who were part of the Obasanjo presidential campaign organization. Pastor Tumo Ojelabi, a retired Federal Director who was one of the beneficiaries declared that, “Oga, is a fastidious personality, a determined helper who can be positively stubborn, and dogged when pursuing a course that he has strong conviction about.” Continuing, Ojelabi, who was the official Photographer to Obasanjo during the presidential campaign said, “but for his resilience, courage, and never-quiver spirit; and Oga Ugochukwu, many of us who toiled during the campaigns would have been left dry.” For Mr. Taiwo Akinyemi, who was Obasanjo’s campaign Official Videographer, “Olusunle is a fighter; a dynamic fighter for other people. When he realized that politicians who did not contribute much to Baba’s electoral success were getting their loyalists into the new government, he fought relentlessly for us all. God used him to get me employed in the federal civil service, I remain eternally grateful.”

Olusunle is a pan-Nigerian, totally detribalized, and not given to ethnicity, religious segregation and similar stereotype. Described by close friends as diligent, dedicated, and devoted to friendship, Olusunle remains a restless and tireless quester for knowledge and new challenges. Given his multi-dimensional, and multi-tasking skills and proficiencies, he can excel in whatever profession, assignment, and position. Energized by his voracious search for new ideas, he is almost, always thinking out of the box. Very ingenious, creative, and imaginative, one recalls few initiatives that came from his fertile mind during the Obasanjo presidency. Persistent encouraging words about Nigeria’s sports which led to the inclusion of the “sports brief” to his schedules. Advocacy for the hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, (CHOGM) at any of the nation’s resorts; which informed him leading a team of journalists, tourism experts, and bureaucrats to the Yankari Games Reserves in Bauchi. What about the National Media Tour, though initiated by him but hijacked by a few top government officials who at the end muddled the entire programme?

Corroborating, Mr. Vincent Oyefeso, a retired Federal Director, and another beneficiary of the Obasanjo appointments approval, said, “he is an illustrious Nigerian and a patriot per excellence, who bestrides many walks of life as an intellectual collossus, a humanist of no mean hue, and an advocate of the finest social ethos. At the realms of public communications, the academia, and public service, he exudes the best practices worthy of emulation by right-thinking compatriots.” For Mr. Ukadike Uwabor, a media communications consultant, “since I’ve known him, he has remained consistent with the core values of excellence, versatility, and intellect. He relates perfectly with different people no matter the age, religion, tribe, or social status. Little wonder his friends cut across different strata of the society. That the people of Umukabia autonomous community in Abia state conferred on him a chieftaincy title; which is outside his geographical, ethnic, and linguistic zone speaks volumes about his personality.” Olusunle by the way, has few other titles bestowed on him in different parts of the country.

Agreed, no human being is perfect but the writer has personal experiences about Olusunle that remains nostalgic. Indeed, the over two decades relationships have grown from one stage to the other. From boss to teacher, mentor, and motivator. He has played (and continues to play) different roles in one’s professional development, and career progression. Perhaps, he may not realize this; while working with him, Olusunle doesn’t attend meetings alone. The writer, Late Alhaji Wasiu Anjous, and (on few occasions) Akinyemi accompanied him to any meeting, particularly with MDAs. Another striking feature was that he introduced you as a “colleague.” With that, one’s stock, respect, and recognition increases. One of the fall-out of such remarkable style happened at the 2004 Olympics Games in  Greece, when Late Mr. Solomon Matankari, Nigeria’s Chef de Mission, and Sports Ministry’s Permanent Secretary insisted on the participation of Anjous and the writer in  high-level meetings.

Not persuaded by the hierarchical structure of the civil service, Olusunle places premium on availability, delivery, and consistency. Just a few months after being deployed to his office, the writer had a baptism of fire. Barely 48 hours after one of the regular presidential chats, Olusunle passed the recorded tape, and declared, “do transcribe and deliver in three days.” Sensing shock, and surprise, he encouraged, “you can do it, go at your pace.” On another occasion, a few days after commending the writer on a piece, “From Saw Dust To The Skies,” he said, “write a speech for Dr. Mrs. Kema Chikwe, the Aviation Minister, for a programme this Saturday to be held in Garki, Abuja.” Though tough but exciting, it marked my entry into the exclusive class of speech writers; till this moment. Sometime in 2023; after long hiatus from opinion writing, due to a new assignment at the National Assembly, the writer did a piece. Impressed, Olusunle called immediately, “BJ, I’ve just read your brilliant article. I encourage you to make this more regular, please. I’m available to offer any support where and when necessary.” Truly, he has kept faith to his promise in the over thirty articles written between December 2023 and now.

This is the man we are celebrating today, and always. Olusunle is an extremely organized personality, whose writings and interventions are laced with irrefutable data, educative instances, and inspiring suggestions. When occasions demands, you can’t help but applaud his depth of knowledge, information reservoir, deep vistas, and un-ending capacity. Oyefeso prays that, “the Lord grants him peace as he steps into the sixth floor. The Father of Lights will continually uphold and uplift him from Glory to Glory in Jesus Name.” Mr. Jacob Zwings, aide to Director-General, National Orientation Agency added that, “Oga Tunde, in his own way has impacted positively on the lives of people. On the occasion of his Diamond jubilee, I pray that God will perfect everything that concerns him and his family.” Akinyemi declared that, “just as he has been a blessing to other people’s children, God will bless him, his wife, and children.” Uwabor believes that, “Enyi Oha has become a reference point to many people. The good Lord will grant him more years in good health as he age gracefully with abundance of all-round blessings.” Ojelabi affirmed that, “Olusunle is who he is today; an accomplished man who stands tall among his peers because of his commitment towards extending helping hands to those who needs it.”

* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.

In an era where effective leadership is more crucial than ever, Hon. (Dr.) Saheed Mosadoluwa stands out as a beacon of visionary leadership. His approach transcends traditional governance, embodying a blend of innovation, empathy, and strategic foresight that inspires those around him and fosters community growth.

Pioneering Change Through Vision

Dr. Mosadoluwa’s leadership is characterized by a clear, forward-thinking vision. His ability to foresee challenges and opportunities allows him to craft policies that not only address current issues but also lay the groundwork for a prosperous future. He understands that visionary leadership is not just about having a great idea; it is about mobilizing resources, people, and initiatives to turn ideas into reality.

Empathy and Inclusivity at the Core

At the heart of his leadership philosophy is a deep sense of empathy. Dr. Mosadoluwa believes that true leadership involves listening to the voices of the people and prioritizing their needs. He fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, ensuring that every stakeholder feels heard and respected. This commitment to inclusivity not only strengthens community ties but also enhances the effectiveness of governance.

Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Development

Dr. Mosadoluwa recognizes the complexities of today’s challenges and approaches them with innovative, sustainable solutions. He champions initiatives that leverage technology, education, and sustainable practices to drive development. His focus on smart, sustainable urban planning and community-driven projects demonstrates his commitment to fostering resilient communities that can thrive in the face of adversity.

Empowering Future Leaders

As a visionary leader, Dr. Mosadoluwa is dedicated to empowerment. He actively mentors the next generation of leaders, believing that true leadership involves creating opportunities for others to grow. Through workshops, seminars, and community engagement initiatives, he inspires young minds to develop their leadership potential and become active participants in shaping their futures.

Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

Honesty and integrity are cornerstones of Dr. Mosadoluwa’s leadership. He believes that transparent governance builds trust within the community. By promoting open communication and accountability, he sets a standard for ethical leadership, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the community.

Conclusion

Hon. (Dr.) Saheed Mosadoluwa is more than just a leader—he is a visionary. Through his innovative strategies, empathetic approach, and commitment to inclusivity, he is redefining the true definition of what Leadership. As he continues to inspire and enact positive change, Dr. Mosadoluwa remains dedicated to building a better future for all, proving that with visionary leadership, anything is possible.

BY BOLAJI AFOLABI

The writer started the day; Tuesday, March 11 with reinvigorated hopes, and great expectations. Looking forward towards positive developments around and about families, friends, colleagues, and associates. However, at about 9 in the morning, the songs changed, and melodies turned sour. Within ten minutes, a couple of calls dropped the most unexpected, unexplainable, and unthinkable news. That, Reverend Father Pius Femi Oladele, MSP, has departed the earth to join saints in heaven. Silent wishes that there could be some mix-up were erased, as Clement Oladele, Deputy Corp Marshall with the Federal Roads Safety Corps (FRSC); brother to Rev. Father confirmed the incident in a telephone conversation with the writer. A palpable state of shock and sadness envelope the writer. In fits of anger and pain, many questions, serial puzzles, and numerous posers kept running through the mind in cinematic rapidity.

In his over three-decade ecclesiastical calling, Father Oladele traversed different locations in South Africa and Nigeria. He truly, and thoroughly had an all-inclusive perception and all-embracing approach to life, living, identified with locals anywhere he was posted. Throughout his missionary odyssey, people, and humanity was the fulcrum of his calling. He showed unequivocal commitment and consistent sacrificial contributions to the personal growth, religious advancement, and communal development of territories.The last three words, “Lerato, Leef Voort ” of the title of this Tribute is informed by Father Oladele’s laudable integration with various communities in South Africa where he served for about twenty years, and understood, spoke the native Afrikaan language with distinction. He was at home, and related freely, easily with the locals that he adopted “Lerato” meaning “Love” in Sesotho language spoken in South Africa and Lesotho, as his name.

Either in priesthood or relationship with people, Father Oladele epitomized the teachings of Jesus Christ. In whatever he does; official or personal, formal or informal, he upholds God’s counsel and teaches; “Love Your Neighbor As Yourself.” From the testimonies of people in Nigeria, South Africa, and across the world, he believed in “ministering the Word” and “ministering to the Needs” of people. According to Mr. Gideon Anosike, of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Bariga, Lagos; where he was the Parish Priest between 2013 and 2017, “he had a very convincing and reassuring approach to his ministerial work such that, within months of resumption, he became the darling of everybody. His love, and interest in the religious and personal development of church members was exceptional.” Corroborating, Ms. Bridget Okorie of St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Gwagwalada declared that, “he was such a wonderful Priest who was always there for members. For me, and many others, unarguably, he was one of the best Priests around.” For Mr. John Bongani of St. Kizito Catholic Church, Bohlokang-Bethlehem, South Africa; where Father Oladele served as it’s first Parish Priest, “his unique style of ministering, and transparent leadership contributed immensely to the growth of the Parish. He impacted us so much that when he was posted to another Church at Lindley Parish we all felt terribly bad.”

Undoubtedly, the chorus of an old but popular Christian song that, “wherever he goes (went), he was doing good,” resonates with the personae and personality of Father Oladele. From various accounts of Catholics, friends, colleagues, staff, family members, and many others, he lived a life of compassion, empathy, and altruism. He was extremely charismatic, genial, gracious, and had pleasant demeanour. Always positively impacting lives of not just people close to him but anybody that comes around him. Refer to him as the destiny helper of many people, you won’t be wrong. Through his teachings, love, and benevolence, many people; whose destinies were hitherto perverted, and destroyed, have been positively re-directed. For him, there was no middle-position when touching people’s lives. Prevarication and procrastination had no entry permit whenever he decides to reach-out to people.

Sir Johnson Jimoh, KSM, brother in-law to Father Oladele confirmed that, “he was a true missionary who dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity. Throughout his time on earth, he gave proper meaning to the divine assignment of missionaries by expressly touching the lives of people.” Mrs. Ireti Oladele, a sister in-law strongly believes that, “he was a gift to humanity, such a kind, gentle, loving, and compassionate soul. Anytime my children and I visit him, I always marvel at the depth of his benevolence and generosity he showers on people, and still feels he should have done more. That he is an unapologetic lover of children is an understatement. In fact, during his birthday last year, the sheer number of children from humble homes, less privileged, and the down trodden that felicitated with him was unbelievable. He was genuinely friendly with them as they flocked around him in total excitement.”

Truly, one is pleasantly surprised at the quality and quantity, as well as the space and speed in which Father Oladele extends favour and gestures to people. Like someone on a mission whose allotted time was brief, he appeared almost, always in haste to fulfill this divine assignment. Mrs. Paulina Akinlabi, a parishioner with St. Flavius Catholic Church, Oworonshoki, Lagos, where Father Oladele superintendent between June 2020 and February 2021, declared that, “though he was here for less than one year, the impact he made was far more than some other priests before him. I don’t know how he does it but he reaches out to church members who are in dire need. More importantly, he doesn’t want to be acknowledged or celebrated for touching lives, as he preferred to remain anonymous. He was such a simple, easy going, and practical priest.” According to Mr. Martins Yohana of St. Kevin Catholic Church, Nyanya, Abuja, “as an assistant Parish Priest under the leadership of Very Revd. Father Donatus Akpan in 2012, he was very popular among parishioners. He showered love and compassion to members. These virtues endeared him to many people who flocked around him for prayers, discussions, and requests after Mass. was gifted with uncommon love, compassion, and considerate virtues that was easily noticeable by people. Mr. Molu Dada, an Ilorin-based Educationist, and cousin, agreed that “it is not surprising that people eulogized these attributes in Father. As a younger cousin, I recall with nostalgia that he had these kindhearted, generous, and empathetic traits from way back. Even as a student (while in secondary school), there is nothing he can’t give; he is that good, loving, and caring.”

Father Oladele’s schoolmates; the 1981 set at St. Barnabas Secondary School, Kabba, which was one of the top grade “A” post-primary schools in the old Kwara (now Kogi) state, in a message affirmed that Oladele was, “an extraordinary phenomenon of transformation, who embody the scripture in 1 Peter 2:9.” The statement signed by Pastor (Dr) Sha’e Bebeyi, President of the Group added that, “the countless lives you ministered to are mourning your departure, while heaven rejoices at your recall to glory.” By the way, though he had the liberty to spank erring students as the Labour Perfect but Father Oladele never used the big stick to cane anybody. Asked why, he confessed that he believes moving around with the big stick will not only scare but make students comply with instructions. An ingenious strategy which some of his classmates confirmed worked.

Mr. Raphael Lethabo of St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Ficksburg, South Africa; where Father Oladele was the Parish Priest, “the earth’s loss is heaven’s gain. Though I was not here when he was the Parish Priest but sweet testimonies of his great exploits, passion for members’ personal growth, and communal development are very inspiring. Since his death became public, those who knew him while he was here, and in the entire Diocese of Bethlehem have been regularly, and passionately speaking about him.” Still in shock, Mr. Fidelis, popularly called Papa Fidel was the personal driver of Father Oladele while he was in Lagos. Amid tensed and pensive moods, he asked, “why do good men die early? Why did God call Father home this early? Why has death taken away someone who touched me, and my family in very special ways? See, even after leaving Lagos for Abuja, he still extends his benevolence to me. Father was a very good man, always wanting people around him to be happy.”

From confirmed reports, it was obvious that Father Oladele knew he would end up being a priest. He was a dedicated Mass Server (Altar Boy), as a young student, at Immaculate Heart Catholic Church, Lokoja; and Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Kabba, both in present day Kogi state. He continued this solemn assignment at St. Augustine’s College, Kabba, from where he moved to St. Barnabas Secondary School, also in Kabba, completed his secondary education. While working at the Kano Plastic Company; one of the biggest manufacturing industries in the northern commercial city, with strong passion and desire to build an entrepreneurial career, he received the call to Priesthood. Thereafter, he underwent priestly missionary training at the National Missionary of St. Paul, which was then in Iperu Remo, Ogun state. On June 22nd, 1991, he (and twelve others) were Ordained as Catholic Reverend Fathers of the Missionary of St. Paul (MSP); a specialized priesthood in the Roman Catholic Church, at the new National Headquarters in Gwagwalada, Abuja, by Most Revd. W.J. McCormack, the National Director, Propagation of the Faith, United States of America. He was posted to St. Patrick’s Catholic Church, Maiduguri, where he served for about a year under Very Revd. Father Hillary Akpunku; who (then) was a Captain with the Nigerian Army.

Following his first missionary posting, Father Oladele arrived in South Africa on January 1st, 1992, where he spent most of his priesthood life. For 19 years, he was at the Diocese of Bethlehem located in the eastern part of the Free State province. Bethlehem, is specifically situated in the Thabo Mofutsanyane region, near the popular Maluti Mountain. While there, he moved around different Parishes, and occupied notable positions, and offices. Given his love for people, he seamlessly assimilated into their culture, and spoke the Afrikaan language fluently and flawlessly. His versatility, resourcefulness, and religious prowess earned him numerous recognition and elevation. Appointed Vicar-General from 2009 to 2011; Acting Bishop of South Africa (first non-indigene); citizenship of the Republic of South Africa; Diocesan Commissioner of Oaths. He was at various times Dean of the Central Deanery (three consecutive terms); Diocesan Director of the Bishop’s Lenten Appeal; Member, College of Consultants (for eight years); Local Superior, Missionary of St. Paul in South Africa (for two terms). He was the Parish Priest of many Catholic Churches in and around the Diocese of Bethlehem including Bohlokang; Lindley; Ficksburg; Odendaalsrus; Kuttwanang; and Welkom.

After his missionary duties in South Africa, Father Oladele came back to Nigeria for his sabbatical; pending receipt of fresh posting. While in Nigeria, he was deployed to the Nyanya, Abuja Parish; under the Abuja Arch Diocese as Assistant Parish Priest to Very Revd. Father Donatus Akpan in 2012. Between 2013 and 2017, he was appointed Parish Priest of St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church, Lady Lak, Bariga, Lagos. Transferred to St. Flaviis Catholic Church, Oworonshoki, Lagos, between June 2020 and February 2021. Later transferred to St. Paul’s Catholic Church, Gwagwalada, under the Parish Priest, Revd. Father Gabriel Ekoe. Sadly, he was to resume at a new Parish in the United States of America; for his next missionary posting, when he died.

Late Revd. Father Pius Femi Oladele, MSP, was born on August 17, 1961 to the family of late PA Martins Oladele, and Mrs Margaret Oladele, both from Kabba, Kogi state. Fondly called OJILATI; by schoolmates, friends, and associates, he was a broad-minded, diligent and dedicated lover of God, His Kingdom, and humanity. He lived a life of peace, contentment, sacrifice, and other enviable virtues that are anchored on the teachings of Jesus Christ. He is survived by an aged mother; siblings, Mrs. Josephine Jimoh; DCM Clement Oladele; Mrs. Christy Iluogben; Mr. Francis Oladele; Mrs. Veronica Obaloko; and Mrs. Julie Oloniruha. The Yoruba tribe believes that, “we do not mourn the dead, we celebrate their lives,” and Ghanians admonish that, “the dead are not dead, they are alive in our hearts.” Indeed, Father Oladele’s legacy of compassion, empathy, and selfless service to God and mankind; with no iota of discrimination and segregation will remain paramount in our hearts. As they say in the Afrikaan language; which he spoke with brilliance and beauty, “Lerato, Leef Voort” that is; Love, Lives On! Revd. Father Pius Femi Lerato Oladele LIVES ON!!!

* BOLAJI AFOLABI, a Development Communications specialist was with the Office of Public Affairs, The Presidency, Abuja.