ASIWAJU: OKE AGBA; By Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola
Your 71st birthday anniversary is unique because of the following:
- A climax of political aspiration and attainment.
- A remarkable milestone in life and a sign of divine grace.
- A testimony to political resilience, sagacity and tenacity.
You must indeed be eternally grateful to almighty Allah for his immeasurable support and mercy in your life.
Your life is memorable; it is therefore important to emphasize Yoruba ethos of leadership for reflection.
Age is the essential qualification for leadership in our clime. Professor Gbadegeshin outlined the various categories of Yoruba elders. These are Agba, Agbalagba and Agbasanko. These are the core and soul of a Yoruba community. They determine its morality, virtue and character.
At 71, you are already in that league of AGBA in our community. Your inclusion among the communal icons and exemplars puts on you some stark realities. Agba kii soro bi ewe. Agba kii wa l’oja ki ori omo tuntun wo. Enu Agba lobi ti ngbo. Agba ni ngba, etc.
Having become an Agba by age, status and attainment, you therefore need this admonition.
Alhaji Agba, Sikiru Ayinde Barrister, in one of his lyrics, said “Oke agba ni mo gun ema jen jabo”. May Allah SWT fulfill this supplication in our lives. Aamin.
Six years ago when a group of associates helda birthday event for me in Osogbo. One of them sang the song that I am using as the theme of this tribute. It is my birthday presentto you and conclusion of this piece.
🎶Asiwaju se pele o,
Oke agba lo gun yi o, e
Jagaban se pele o,
Oke agba lo gun yi o, e
Oko Senator Oluremi se pele o
Oke agba lo gun yi o, e
President elect se pele o,
Oke agba lo gun yi o, e.🎶
May Allah SWT bestow on you good health, sound mind, clear vision, great strength and complete wisdom for the task ahead. Aamin.
Congratulations!
Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola
Minister of Interior
