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A LEGACY ETCHED IN GOLD: OKA AKOKO HONOURS LATE CHIEF ISRAEL ADENIYI OLUKOJU WITH POSTHUMOUS GOLDEN MERIT AWARD
In a moment steeped in reverence, pride and poignant remembrance, the ancient town of Oka Akoko in Ondo State, Nigeria,came alive with grandeur and emotion as it hosted the 2025 edition of the annual OKA AKOKO DAY CELEBRATION.
This year’s event bore a deeper significance as it marked the 10th anniversary of the passing of one of Oka Akoko’s most illustrious sons, LATE Chief (HON.) ISRAEL ADENIYI OLUKOJU, MHA,JP, and witnessed the posthumous conferment of the prestigious OKA AKOKO GOLDEN MERIT AWARD upon the revered elder statesman.
The historic event which was held at the Olubaka palace arcade drew dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond such as Political leaders, traditional rulers, Captain of industry, Scholars and the diaspora community, all united in honouring the ancient community on its annual Day celebration and a man whose life was a testament to service, integrity, and visionary leadership.
Leading the procession of eminent sons and daughters of Oka Akoko was the paramount ruler of the kingdom, His Imperial Majesty,Oba(Dr) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye,OON whose presence underscored the cultural and historical importance of the occasion.
In his royal speech,Oba Adeleye described Chief Olukoju as a man whose footprints remain indelible in the sands of time.
He said the Okarufe Golden Merit award remains the highest in the history of the community, saying the conferment of the award posthumously on Chief Olukoju was in recognition and profound appreciation of his life of service.
The emotional crescendo of the award segment of the event came with the presentation of a memorial citation by Dr Felix Ale, a celebrated African Journalist and currently the Director of Media and Corporate Communications of the National Space Research and Development Agency of Nigeria.
With eloquence and heartfelt emotions,Dr Ale painted a vivid portrait of Chief Olukoju’s life journey from humble beginning to national prominence.
“He was an extraordinary man whose name is etched in gold in the chronicles of Oka Akoko, Nigeria and Africa” Dr Ale declared.”
Chief Olukoju according to him was not just a public figure,he was a moral compass,a beacon of wisdom and a trailblazer in every field he graced.
Dr Ale’s tribute resonated deeply with the audience,many of whom were visibly moved as he recounted Olukoju’s unwavering commitment to justice,his pioneering role and his tireless advocacy for housing for all, rural development and education.
His legacy, Dr Ale emphasized,is not merely one of political achievement but of moral fortitude and human compassion.
Among the attendees were Chief Olukoju’s children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and extended family,who stood proudly as the award was presented by the prescribed authority of Oka Kingdom, the Olubaka,Oba(Dr) Yusuf Adebori Adeleye,OON.
Their presence was a powerful reminder that the elder statesman’s values live on not only in the annals of history but in the hearts and actions of those he mentored and inspired.
The conferment of of the OKA AKOKO GOLDEN MERIT AWARD posthumously on Chief Israel Adeniyi Olukoju is more than a ceremonial honour,it is a reaffirmation of the values he stood for: integrity, service, and relentless pursuit of a better society.
In a deeply personal moment, Mrs Adenike Fatogun, Chief Olukoju’s first daughter and former Commissioner for Education in Ondo State who received the award on behalf of Olukoju’s family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Olubaka and the people of Oka Akoko for the honour bestowed upon her late father.
“This recognition means the world to our family.It affirms that our father’s sacrifices and values continue to resonate with the people he loved and served” She declared.
The special thanksgiving and remembrance service at St David’s African Church,Okia Oka filled with dignitaries, was a sanctuary of reflection and celebration.
The Diocesan Bishop and Oka Akoko Provincial Archbishop,The Most Reverend J.O Akinsanya paid glowing tribute to Chief Olukoju, describing him as a devout Christian who carried the mantle of faith and service with uncommon reverence.
According to him, Chief Olukoju’s life was quite inspiring and a sermon in action.
The Olubaka who was also in attendance with all his chiefs again re-echoed Chief Olukoju’s legacy of service and spiritual devotion.
The First Class Monarch told the congregation that Chief Olukoju was a man of honor whose legacy will continue to serve as a challenge and inspiration to future generations.
Presenting his father’s enviable track records to the congregation,Mr Segun Olukoju,one of Chief Olukoju’s sons described him as a role model,a distinguished politician of note and a father whose wisdom and courage shaped the lives of his children and community.
Segun Olukoju’s words and submissions echoed the sentiments of many who had gathered not just to morn but to celebrate a life that continues to inspire.
The first Asiwaju of Oka Akoko and former Secretary General of Afenifere,Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa was not left out as he described Chief Olukoju as one of the founding fathers of Ondo State.
He said, the invaluable contributions and integrity of late Chief Olukoju will continue to place him on the positive side of the golden records of human history.
All said and done it must be emphasized that as the sun set over the hills of Oka Akoko, the town stood united in honouring a man whose life was a masterclass in leadership,faith and service.
The unique occasion was a testament to Chief Olukoju’s towering legacy as a politician, community leader and a moral exemplar.
The conferment of the OKA AKOKO GOLDEN MERIT AWARD on the late elder statesman was not merely symbolic but it was indeed a reaffirmation of the values Chief Olukoju embodied.
His legacy lives on in the hearts of his children, the annals of Nigerian politics and the soul of Oka Akoko.
Therefore,in a world yearning for principled leadership,Chief Isreal Adeniyi Olukoju remains a shining example of what it means to live with purpose, conviction and grace.
May his soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
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