Guests from all walks of life, including elder statesmen, top civil servants, traditional rulers, political leaders, and captains of industry, thronged the OOPL to honour a man many described as the embodiment of loyalty and excellence in public service.
The atmosphere was electrifying as Yinka Ayefele mounted the stage, dishing out evergreen tunes that got dignitaries, including Chief Obasanjo, on their feet in joyful dance.
The iconic Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta, wore a new face on Sunday. Its expansive halls, usually reserved for sober reflection and historical archives, transformed into a breathtaking centre of celebration, elegance and honour.
Gold and white drapes cascaded from the high ceilings. Cultural motifs framed every pillar. The pictures of one man, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, adorned every nook and cranny of the event centre. Ogun State had rolled out the drums to celebrate its 20th Head of Service at his statutory retirement and thanksgiving reception.
And the drums were not alone. Popular Juju musician, Yinka Ayefele, was on stage to dazzle the audience with soul-lifting tunes. The high point came when former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, rose from his seat and danced gleefully to the music rendered, drawing loud cheers from guests. For a moment, protocol gave way to pure joy.
“Diligent, Resourceful, Proactive”
It was Chief Obasanjo who set the tone for the day. Speaking at the reception, the former President described Mr. Onasanya as “a diligent, resourceful, and proactive public servant whose legacy will continue to be remembered.”
He also commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for appointing Mr. Onasanya as the 20th Head of Service, calling it “a step in the right direction.”
Going down memory lane, Obasanjo told the gathering: “I first came across Mr. Onasanya when he was working as a reporter, before he rose through the ranks of the civil service to attain the peak of his career.”
Governor Abiodun, represented by his deputy, Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele, congratulated the immediate past Head of Service on his achievements and meritorious service to the State.
A Grateful Heart
In an emotion-laden remark, Mr. Onasanya appreciated God for preserving his life throughout his years in service up to his retirement. He expressed gratitude to the governor, members of the State Executive Council, family members, friends, and associates for their support and encouragement during his career in the State civil service.
Earlier, a thanksgiving service was held at the Government House Chapel, Isale-Igbehin, Abeokuta. The service had in attendance top government functionaries from within and outside the State, with the wife of the governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, reading one of the Bible lessons.
The event ended on a note of gratitude, with Mr. Onasanya’s legacy etched not just in files and policies, but in the hearts of those he served.
For those present, it was more than a retirement party. It was a testament that a life of distinguished public service still commands dignity, colour, and honour in Ogun State.
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