Reality Life Magazine - September Edition by Francis Toke

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Issue 3 Vol.6 l.6 6

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He Is A Goal-Getter, Determined To Get Result From Whatever He Embarks Upon - Akinkugbe

He Has Helped A Lot Of Young People To Position Themselves - Fawehinmi

Chief Segun Adegoke @78:

He Is A Man Of All Parts - Akingbule

Celebrating An Accomplished Lawyer And Political Colossus N2000

US$5.00

CHIEF SEGUN

Adegoke

@78

Please accept our congratulations as steadily in you continue to advance a age and we equally equa thank God for His grace upon your life. l good leader who continYou remain a goo ues to bequeath tto us quality leadership and a deep ccommitment to the Party. goals of the Party We must say that your entire life has been one of service servi to Ondo State and the legacies that dots we are proud of th through our history. your footsteps th Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s our prayer that tha the Almighty God will bestow upon you the grace to remain of essence and more years of our Party and nation. active service to o

Olorogun Eddy Olafeso, Ph.D National Vice Chairman South West

Publisher Evafem Communication 200 Road, House 7, Festac, Lagos

Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Notes

Editor- in- Chief Oghenemairo Adegeye Managing Editor Adegeye Oluwafemi

As We Celebrate An Iconic Lawyer And Politician

t is yet another special bumper edition of RealityLife Magazine, celebrating a very accomplished lawyer, an exceptional political leader and mentor. It is an exciting edition we aptly captioned Chief Segun Adegoke @78: Celebrating An Accomplished Lawyer And Political Colossus. For us at RealityLife Magazine, we made a pledge to you, our dear readers, that we will continue to churn out very juicy, exciting, informative, entertaining and delightful editions. We have not reneged in this promise as we get stronger by every edition. It s therefore, another special edition of RealityLife Magazine dedicated to celebrating an accomplished lawyer, political colossus, mentor and benefactor to so many politicians in Ondo State and beyond. In fact the politicians tell the story themselves in this edition. While some of them see him as the grandfather of Ondo politics, others see him as the greatest political mentor to have emerged in Ondo State. Yet, others see the man widely called the Political Leader as an apostle of progressive politics. Described as having been preoccupied with the cause of justice, egalitarianism, and inclusiveness from his youth, Chief Segun Adegoke s political journey has been that laced with service to the people, justice for the masses and political inclusiveness. His commitment to democracy as a means of social organization, his generosity, his bravery, and his readiness to bury the hatchet whenever such existed between him and other folks whether in politics or in inter-personal relations all stand him out as an exceptional politician. Chief Segun Adegoke, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is unarguably seen as an astute politician of Awolowo s political school of thought. In fact, he admitted this truism himself when he said in an interview with a national newspaper some years back that he had the opportunity of following the trend of political events when he was in secondary school in 1960 to 62, and followed the imbroglio between Chief Obafemi Awolowo and S.L Akintola. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I read all the proceedings during the treasonable felony case. I was so much in love with Chief Obafemi Awolowo. I liked his courage; I liked his articulation and I also liked his confidence. I liked by the candor of the man and the stuff he was made of. And so, I said in my mind that, I wanted to be like him. Before then, I had read his autobiography in London, titled AWO. I read it from cover to cover and I made up my mind that I was going to stand any test of life like what I read from AWO, he told the newspaper. This special edition is enriched with testimonials by men and women from all walks of life, who had at one point or the other encountered the political icon either in the course of their official work, at the political space, the Church or social circle.

Associate Editors Walter Enoch Toddy Celestine Raymond Emeka Mbah Proof Readers Chukwudi Uruakpa Joan Odafe Kemi Adeniyi Adegeye Writers/ Contributors/ Columnists Siyabonga B. Samuel Okodidili Sholape Adesoye Designs and Layout Kelechi Okoro- Emmanuels Letters, comments and observations should be addressed to the Editor at Plot 49 Animasaun Estate Extension, Surulere, Lagos. Tel: 0805 655 5838, 0909 393 7727, 07066122290 E-mail: realitylifemag@gmail.com, adamairo76@yahoo.com REALITY MISSION Our mission is to constatntly promote and project Agriculture/ tourism, entertainment, culture, style, events, festivals, sporting to be the global community advertising and marketing of product and services, through highly motivated staff, rendering excellent services to the world. REALITY VISION To be a leading agriculture/tourism, entertainment and life style magazine with the best hands providing quality services to readers and clients around the world with great impact. Editorial Adisory King Sunny Ade (KSA) Olujimi Olusola 111 Gbenga Oyesanmi ( USA) Barr. Remigius Akinbinu

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Chief Segun Adegoke @78:

Celebrating An Accomplished Lawyer And Political Colossus www.realitylifemagazine.com

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Cover

CHIEF SEGUN ADEGOKE, is widely seen as an accomplished lawyer and politician, having left indelible marks in both the legal profession and his political trajectory that has spanned decades. Politicians, lawyers and public oﬃcers attest to the fact that he is an exceptional and iconic lawyer cum politician as he marks his 78th birthday……

Described as having been preoccupied with the cause of justice, egalitarianism, and inclusiveness from his youth, Chief Segun Adegoke’s political journey has been that laced with service to the people, justice for the masses and political inclusiveness. His commitment to democracy as a means of social organization, his generosity, his bravery, and his readiness to bury the hatchet whenever such existed between him and other folks—whether

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in politics or in inter-personal relations all stand him out as an exceptional politician. And that perhaps explains why a political school of thought sees the man widely referred to in Ondo politics as the “total leader” as a good student of Bernard Baruch, who once said: “A political leader must keep looking over his shoulder all the time to see if the boys are still there. If they aren’t still there, he’s no longer a political leader.”

Chief Segun Adegoke, a member of the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is unarguably seen as an astute politician of Awolowo’s political school of thought. In fact, he admitted this truism himself when he said in an interview with a national newspaper some years back: “I had the opportunity of following the trend of political events when I was in secondary school in 1960 to 62. I followed the imbroglio between Chief

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Obafemi Awolowo and S.L Akintola; I took sides. I read all the proceedings during the treasonable felony case. I was so much in love with Chief Obafemi Awolowo. I liked his courage; I liked his articulation and I also liked his confidence.” Having witnessed the travails of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, the young Adegoke felt that with a background of a lawyer, he could build politics on it. He was therefore, herefore, already interested in politics before he left the Nigerian shores to study tudy law abroad. His principle then was the Awolowo philosophy of life more abundant. bundant. “I believe a politician should hould serve the people and nd so, I just got involved. When I was still in England in 1972, I had the opportunity of meeting Chief Gani Fawehinmi with whom. I happened to be from the same ame town, Ondo. One day, he told me that Chief Awolowo was in n London and that hat he could take ake me along o visit him at to Churchill Hotel n London if I so in wished. When I got there, I could ee my idol live and see I was excited and I was touched by the implicity of the man; simplicity he way he spoke to the me and I got interested more in politics because of that meeting. “I didn’t come back o Nigeria until 1975. to

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I had my law school course in 1976 and was called to bar in 1976. I was practicing with Gani Fawehinmi and we had this routine of visiting Chief Awolowo all the time at his Park Lane Avenue in Lagos. Each time we visited him, I was always carried away. I liked by the candor of the man and the stuff he was made of. and so, I said in my mind that, I wanted to be like him. Before then, I had read his autobiography in London, titled AWO. I read it from cover to cover and I made up my mind that I was going to stand any test of life like what I read from AWO. “I said if Awolowo could go through these types of challenges he wrote in his books and still succeeded in life, then I was ready and determined to do same. Because I read how his house was auctioned; how he asked for loan from friends and they didn’t give him. I learnt of his struggle in Nigeria Youth Movement and all kinds of intrigues and atrocity against him. I read many things he went through to achieve his aims. So, he gave me a strong determination, in London which is a tough place to achieve one’s aim, Awolowo had written on how he got through it and made success in life. That encouraged me more. In the 70s, when I was having interaction with him, I was already a lawyer.”

But having seen in Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a political role model, Adegoke decided he was going into politics so as to serve the people. He was interested in politics because according to him, he was a bit critical of the first republic. “I was a young man, I probably didn’t understand what politics was really all about. There were certain facilities w I wished we could have in our areas. I was thinking the government was not doi very well by not providing all doing tho facilities for us. I, therefore, made those up my mind that I was going to go into pol politics. I wanted to go into politics so I can serve the people very well. “When I was saying this, I really meant it. I had no sample of wealth around politics at tha time. that W I mean was that those who were What p in politics as of that time were not very wea wealthy people; they were average people So I cannot say I was motivated by ple. the life style as at the time I went into their pol politics. The politicians were not as very rich as those after them. “ I was not motivated by wealth at “So, b I was motivated by the fact that all but w I wanted to serve the people to the best m knowledge. And I am happy that of my w at the government which served I was the people of Ondo State very well. And tha was the era of Pa Chief Michael that Ad Adekunle Ajasin.”

“I believe a politician should serve the people and so, I just got involved. When I was still in England in 1972, I had the opportunity of meeting Chief Gani Fawehinmi with whom. I happened to be from the same town, Ondo

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Interview

The Only Shortcut To Success Is Hardwork, Honesty And Sincerity; And These Have Guided Me All Through -Chief Adegoke CHIEF SEGUN ADEGOKE is a lawyer and politician. Born in Ondo kingdom, he had his elementary education at All Saints Cathedral Primary School and later, Ondo Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; High School. After his secondary education, he took up an appointment with the Federal OďŹ&#x192;ce of Statistics and later worked with ECN, which later became NEPA, and now PHCN. In 1965, he travelled to England, where he studied International Relations and Journalism before proceeding to study law at the University College, London, where he bagged the LL.B degree in 1974. In 1976, he graduated from the Nigerian Law School and was later called to the Bar in July 1976. He worked with late Chief Gani Fawehinmi for a few years before setting up his own Chambers. As a politician, he has gotten to the zenith of his political career having been appointed as the People Democratic party (PDP) Board of Trustee (BOT) member.

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Interview What informed your interest in politics? I was interested in politics because I was a little bit critical of the first republic. I was a young man; I probably didn’t understand what politics was really all about. There were certain facilities I wished we could have in our areas. I was thinking the government was not doing very well by not providing all those facilities for us. I, therefore, made up my mind that I was going to go into politics. I wanted to go into politics so I can serve the people very well. When I was saying this, I really meant it. I had no sample of wealth around politics at that time. What I mean was that those who were in politics as of that time were not very wealthy people; they were average people. So I cannot say I was motivated by their life style as at the time I went into politics. The politicians were not as very rich as those after them. So, I was not motivated by wealth at all but I was motivated by the fact that I wanted to serve the people to the best of my knowledge. And I am happy that I was at the government which served the people of Ondo State very well. And that was the era of Pa Chief Michael Adekunle Ajasin. You were a renowned lawyer before you delved into politics, how do you manage the two careers? No, I couldn’t manage the two, I was a full time politician. If you are a commissioner, you cannot be practicing law, it’s against the rules. Once you have taken a government appointment, you cannot engage in any private practice. I left my chambers and went into politics for the period. Would you have rather preferred to stay at the bar? Yes, because when I look at what certain people are doing now, when I look at my aim which was not realized, I would have thought probably I would have been better off if I had remained at the bar as a lawyer. At 78, would you say you’ve done well for yourself? At my age, I will rather say that God has been very kind to me; He has been extremely kind to me. God himself made me to be able to say I am fulfilled. Even if I die tomorrow, I thank my God, my father, my mother, my maternal grandfather who had assisted me when I was young because I lost my father at the age

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of 12 when he was just 35 years. That’s why each year, when I celebrate my birthday to give thanks to God, at least for once I show generosity to mankind by making them to wine and dine with me and felicitate and rejoice with me. At this age, I never knew I will be as old as this. And since God has been too kind to me, I must continue to give praises to him, I will celebrate the birthday till when God calls me. How do you think politics should be played and by who? The good ones are not in offices, the bad ones, the demagogues, the third rate class people are on top. The reasons for

this cannot be far-fetched: the good Nigerians are not prepared to take the risk in politics, they are afraid. We have great men and women in Nigeria who can turn Nigeria around, but what we have are people who are dishonest, who are greedy and very selfish. Imagine people stealing billions of naira, what for? And they have looted the treasury dry to the extent that facilities that ought to help the upcoming generation had been dissipated in vanity. So until good Nigerians decide to take risk and play politics, we may still not get it right. Take for instance, is it not so disgraceful for a country like Nigeria called the giant of Africa to be disputing and argu-

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Interview ing over the certificate of our president? We have about 150 universities in Nigeria and yet, in 2019, 21st century, we are still arguing if our president has certificate or not. If you look at that, you can imagine the kind of people that will work under him. If they are more intellectually superior to him, he will be working at their dictate and to the detriment of Nigeria. Looking at followers today in Nigerian politics, do you think they are getting the dividends of democracy or is there something wrong with followership? Followers are not getting the dividends of democracy. What are the dividends of democracy? Good education, good healthcare delivery, integrated rural development, cheap food, good housing, good roads, where are all these in Nigeria? Even in Nigeria today, there is no power supply. It is begging the question when you say power supply is erratic, it is virtually nil. If people can be deprived of power supply for five days, six days and some people say they’ve not even had light for years in Nigeria of 21st century, where is the dividend? Bright students cannot get scholarship to go to school. Indigent students cannot get scholarship to go to school; so where are the dividends? So Sir, are there ways out of this? Good governance is the only way out; until we put proper leadership in place, we cannot get out of this. What is your take on the nation’s security? That is our albatross, that is our Achilles heels because our security today is nil, its absolutely nil. A situation in a country where gunmen come right into the house and kidnap you right in your own house, what security is there? In a situation where Obas, traditional rulers will be kidnapped in their palaces, a situation where travelers on major roads are stopped and kidnapped. Our security is the worst in the world; it’s worse than any country. Our security is not just porous but it doesn’t exist at all. What is the solution? Again good leadership; if we have a good leader today, all am saying will be different. Take a look at Ghana today, Ghana was a very bad country until Rawlings came into government. And from the time of Rawlings, Ghana has been in the fore-front of the African country.

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Chief Segun Adegoke and his Children

It is begging the question when you say power supply is erratic, it is virtually nil. If people can be deprived of power supply for five days, six days and some people say they’ve not even had light for years in Nigeria of 21st century, where is the dividend? Bright students cannot get scholarship to go to school.

For example, power is very stable there and corruption is at its minimum. If we have good leadership, before we know it, things will be changed for good. You have just been appointed as a member, Board of Trustees of PDP, in your opinion, what do you think informed this? Without sounding or being immodest, I would have said I deserve it. I have been in politics for quite a long time; I have paid my dues. I have not been accused of any kind of political crime in terms of corruption. I am a man of modest living and I have been dedicated to all the parties that I belonged to. I have been very committed to my political party and I can tell you that so far, I have been in two political parties effectively. These are UPN and AD, and until AD actually died, I did not leave AD. I went to PDP and I have been in PDP all my life and all the time. So, if you look at my political profile, you will know that I deserve to be elevated to

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Interview

that position. I am so thankful to people who recognized those services. What is your message to Nigerians as you clock 78? People use to say we should pray, yes, I believe in prayers and at the same time, I believe in everybody discharging his duties well. Let there be humility, dedication, steadfastness, honesty and sincerity. Young ones should learn that the only shortcut to success is hardwork, honesty and sincerity, and the easiest way to greater height is humility. They call you great leader, what do you think informed that? I have always been a leader, sorry to say this. Without being immodest, I have been a leader since I started politics. I originated the 2nd Republic politics in this kingdom. I championed the 2nd Republic in Ondo kingdom, I spent my hard-earned money to build a political party which was in existence then, the

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(L) Chief Segun Adegoke receiving Award during OBHS,Centenary Celebrations from Amb. Omotayo Ogunsulire

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Interview UPN. There is no politician in Ondo kingdom starting from 1978, who can beat his chest that he did not pass through my political leadership. If he did not or does not then, his leader must have passed through that tutelage under that leadership. What I mean by that is take for example, if Mr. B is being led by Mr. A, if Mr. B did not directly pass through my leadership then, Mr. A’s master would have passed through my leadership. What will be your advice about cross-carpeting in politics? That is the bane of politics in this country; that is the problem we have with politics in this country. You look at a person; he has crisscrossed all political parties in existence in Nigeria. Maybe, he wants to be a senator in party A and they didn’t pick him, and then he goes to party B. If he fails in party B, he goes to party C. Even if he becomes a governor in party C and they do not allow him to run for the second time, he will go to party D. So, it deprives us of politics of any ideology. For example, in Great Britain, it is not common for a Labour party man to cross to a Conservative. The same thing is obtainable in the United States of America. A member of the Democratic party cannot go to the Republican party. But over here, the major thing for an average Nigerian politician is the position he’s struggling to occupy. And if there are party of witches and party of wizards or anything, they are ready to join it and get their ambition. So, it has deprived us of ideology. Where is the ideology of any political party in Nigeria today? Are they conservative, are they progressive? Don’t mind those who call themselves progressive, they are the worse conservative and reactionary people in Nigeria today. They call themselves progressive but they are not progressive at all. The reason for cross carpeting is selfishness, greed, desire to want to be in office. How can you be a member of PDP and at the end of your tenure, you join APC? Or, how can you be a member of APC and at the end of your tenure, you join PDP because you are looking for money or position? That is political prostitution and that has debased our politics in Nigeria completely. How can centrifugal forces be stopped? Centrifugal forces is a situation where everybody to himself and God for us all -

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Yoruba to Yoruba, Igbo to Igbo, Hausa to Hausa, the centre could no longer hold. As long as ethnicity exists, this won’t stop, unless if we all the ethnic groups come to unite. For example, today, Nigeria is divided across the land. Our security apparatus is dominated by a particular set of people. Look at other things that are happening

in Nigeria today, look at the problem of Hausa/Fulani, look at the problem of the people they kill in the north. Those people will come together and defend their interest; the Yoruba people will defend their interest, the Igbo will come to defend their interest, the Hausa will come and defend their interest and

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Interview

Chief Segun Adegoke & her daugther

the Fulani too. If you put all these together, you will know that there is no way in which we can solve centrifugal tendency in this country. Does the Nigerian constitution pose any challenge to our existence as a country? To start with, the Nigerian constitution is a fraud from the beginning; it was not our constitution, the military dictatorship imposed it on us. We the people of Nigeria didn’t give that to ourselves. As a result, the northern people loaded it in their favour. They wrote a lot of things in the constitution which gave them an upper hand. If you look deeply into the constitution, they said federal republic of Nigeria. Are we federal in anyway? Are we not unitary, are we not being dominated by a certain ethnic group? Take a look at our constitution, they said no ethnic group shall dominate the other, but is that not what is happening? Then you will discover that this constitution is well written and loaded for a particular set of people in Nigeria. And that’s why they are not prepared to amend it for now. As a matter of fact, it’s not a good constitution for this country until we call a proper constitutional conference or a national conference and write another constitution which everyone will

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participate in. The one of 2014, which they submitted to Jonathan, that can be put together and a constitution can be brought out of that. Nigeria belongs to all of us and we should not accept any domination by any part of Nigeria. Kindly tell us how you rest and what your social life is like? As a lawyer, I still read very furiously but this time am not constraining myself to law books, I read all kinds of books. I believe in the philosophy which said you learn and read and acquire knowledge as if you are not going to die; that has been my principle. Even at 78, I still wake up at night to read books, autobiographies, philosophies and whatever you think about. So I spend my time reading. Now that I am getting older, I watch television as the time permits and I attend close associate functions like burial, marriage, birthday etc. Recently, people said you are more committed to the church and you educate, preach, talk to people and give them words of wisdom; why the new found love? I don’t know what is responsible for that, maybe, it could be that I became

born again or not. I just believe in the life of our Lord Jesus Christ, and am praying day-in, day-out to keep the commandment that I read in the bible. I believe it is sweeter and better for one to be that way. When I look at my youthful days, I begin to wonder why I never thought of what am thinking now because when I was in my 40s, 50s, I hardly prayed despite the fact I was brought up in a Christian home. As a matter of fact, I can’t remember when I focused the existence of God in my life. I believe there is God but I was just careless about it. I go to Church but I see it as another social engagement. However, in the last 8 to 9 years, I think shortly after I was 70, I believed, I should be closer to God more than never before. I renew my commitment to God and that change my belief, character and opinions about life. The first thing I discovered, I became calmer. Now, my temperament is moderate, I find it difficult to harbor malice against people. I pray that God Almighty should continue to allow His holy spirit to continue to direct me in all my ways, I promise I will serve him up to the last day of my life with all I have and know. I will continue to love my neighbour as I love myself and serve only God Almighty through our Lord Jesus Christ.

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Cross Section of Chief Segun Adegoke Children

Chief Segun Adegoke & her daugther

Mr.& Mrs.Bukola Akinyele, Nee Adegoke with thier daugther Dieko

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Mrs. Iyadunni Faleti (Nee Adegoke)

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Omotola Ogundele (Nee Adegoke)

Segun Adegoke Junior

Mrs, Folasade Iyanda, Nee Adegoke with her daugther Yemi,

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(L)Chief Segun Adegoke with Segun Adegoke Junior.

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Felicitation It affords us a great pleasure to write these few lines of goodwill message to congratulate our dear seniour citizen and elder of our Church All Saints’ Church Ogbonkowo, Ondo Chief Segun Adegoke on his 78th Birthday and his appointment as a member of the board of Trustees of the People Democratic party of Nigeria. We are indeed very grateful for the joy of salvation in his life. A former President of Nigeria Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has said that no one could ever achieve true happiness without Jesus Christ. Chief Obasanjo said this while speaking as a guest speaker during a public symposium to mark the 50th anniversary of The Bible Society of Nigeria at Muson Centre Lagos, on the theme: Man In Pursuit of Happiness. Chief Segun Adegoke life completely fit into the above submission. I have known him since 1978 when he was the leading political figure in Ondo West local government. He was the person mobilising other leaders such as late Mrs Janet Aderotoye, Chief Akinbohun and others. He has been very active from the second republic when he served as Ondo state commissioner from 1979 _ 1983, the youngest commissioner then. He has ever been relevant. In his chosen profession ( Legal Practice) he is an ICON. Our greatest joy is the joy of salvation in his life. Since 2012 to date ,one can see the beauty of God in his life. He has ever since dedicated his life to the service of God and humanity. He headed the legal committee of the church effectively without asking for a naira. He is ever ready to serve in all capacities for the development of the Church. The entire Clergy and Laity of All Saints’ Church Ogbonkowo Ondo. heartily Congratulate you on these joyful occasions. Many happy return and glorious achievement in Jesus name Amen.

Sir Chief

Ayo Akingbule Knight of Dominican order

Baba Ewe Ondo Diocese Balogun Ijo All Saints’ Ondo For and on behalf of All Saints’ Church, Ogbonkowo, Ondo

Interview

He Has Helped A Lot Of Young People To Position Themselves - Fawehinmi Aogbo of Ondo Kingdom, CHIEF ADEMIKO FAWEHINMI recalls his growing up years with Chief Segun Adegoke, and describes him as a jolly good fellow…… The Chief Segun Adegoke I Know “My relationship with him has always been a sort of Uncle to him, I have known him for over 60 years now. “He has been a jolly good fellow who is full of integrity; he is integrity personified. He won’t tell a lie, and would tell you nothing but the truth. If you are wrong, he will say it to face regardless who you are. He would tell you his mind and how he perceives you, he is someone you can give a job to do and you go to sleep. “As a young boy then, he had a trait of it. If he says he is coming by 10am, he keeps to time. He respects me enormously. Even when he was an infant, we lived in the same area in Ondo kingdom, himself and Prince Adewole, they lived together in the same house.” Morals Learnt from Him “Wait for your time, even the poorest should work hard, their time is coming. Be truthful, be a person of integrity, work and obey for there is now other ways to be happy with Jesus - trust and obey.” His Impact In The Community “He has made a lot of impact; he has helped a lot of young people to position themselves. He has helped a whole lot of Ondo sons and daughters even is extended family. But then, you can’t have it all; few will say he didn’t help them but a lot will say he helped them.” When He Was Younger “I always call him Segee’ he will say

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‘yes sir’. We always described him as he was then, quite focused; and we were proud of him. If he likes somebody, you will know he likes you. But the day he would want to get to the root of the matter, he will not hesitate to say it the way it is. If you do something wrong, he will tell you.”

Your Wish and your Advice to him. “I pray for him to live much longer and in good health. He should continue to stand firm and not allow material things to take the place of God. God has given him qualities to affect life’s.

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Interview

He Is A Politician Of High Repute - Ifayase HON. (MRS) CECILIA IFAYASE, a Federal Commissioner representing Ondo State at the Public Complaints Commission (PCC) shares with us all she knows about Chief Segun Adegoke….. What is your relationship with Chief Adegoke and for how long? Chief Adegoke is my cousin and I met him politically about 24 years ago when I wanted to become a councilor. Then we went to him to seek for his support, and he asked about my status which I told him. It was then we knew we were cousins, and since then I have known him. How would you describe his person? I know him to be a politician of the highest of repute. I know him to be a straight forward man that doesn’t give a damn, that will say what he believes in. He says what he wants and what he doesn’t want, not minding. What’s your memorable experience with him?

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Chief Adegoke is a very senior leader. There was a time I had a problem with my leader so I went to him and told him everything. He advised me, and I took to his advice and thanks be to God now.

ber, house of assembly commission, before I rose to the position I am now. If he hadn’t supported then,,I see him to be a good leader and a community leader par excellence. a

Do you think he has impacted on the youth through his office? I wouldn’t say yes because without you being a political office holder, there is little you can do; you can’t do much. He was commissioner about 30 years ago since then, he has not been in any political office except when he was special adviser to Chief Adefarati. He was one of the people that promoted me because I was a supervisory councilor, I was a member of the state assembly, I was a member of the teaching service commission, I was a mem-

What do you think young ones should learn from him? To be truthful and stand by the truth at all times without giving a damn. If you know something is white, tell people it’s white; if it’s black, you tell us it’s black. What’s your wish for him at 78? I wish him happy birthday, long life and prosperity in good health and wealth. I wish him all the good things of life; that he will see his children’s children. I rejoice with him.

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Memory Lane

(L) Chief Segun Adegoke with Late Justice R.O. Fawehinmi

(L) Chief Kehinde Sofola SAN; Barr. Kayode Sofola,Son (M)& and Segun Adegoke(R) Call to Bar in 1976

(L) Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, (M)Chief Supo Sonibare (R) Chief Segun Adegoke

(L) Otunba Oyewole Fasawe (M) Chief Segun Adegoke (R) Late Dr. Olusegun Agagu

(M)Chief Segun Adegoke with Chief Jise Akinmurele (R)

(L)Chief Segun Adegoke with Chief Sehinde Arogbofa (Sec. Gen, of Afenifere)

(L)Chief Segun Adegoke with Late Chief Obafemi Awolowo

(L)Chief Segun Adegoke, Lola Fagbemi (R) with others at Adefarati Campaign trail 1998

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Memory Lane

(L)Hon. Abayomi Seba(2ndL),Chief Adegoke Dr,Tayo Dairo, Barr,Oludipo, High Chief Akinfemi & (R) Barr. Olusola Oke, SAN

(R) Chief Segun Adegoke with Late Prof.Olu Agbi (L)

(L)Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom presenting an Award to Chief Segun Adegoke

(R) Late Ebenezer Adegoke (Father) and Late Virginia Mogbonjubola Adegoke (Mother)

Chief Segun Adegoke receiving CertitďŹ cate as lawyer from Dr.Ibironke in July 1976 Call to bar.

Chief Segun Adegoke Mother Congratulating him when sworn-in as Commissioner for Lands & Housing, 1979

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Chief Segun Adegoke at Ondo Stsate Sport Stadium during Youth day Celebratuion

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A day of Glitz and Galmour

t was a day of glitz and glamour--as the Creme de la Cleme gathered in Ondo kingdom, for the occasion of 78 birthday Celebration of Chief Segun Adegoke and A book Presentation. Hon. Rasheed Akinbolaji, Chairman, Planning Committee delivered the welcome address and eulogised the leadership qualities of Chief Segun Adegoke in politics for more than 40years. He acknowledged the fact that Adegoke has played his part in nation building and has made his contribution in development of Ondo State politics. He commended Dr. Abiodun Alexander Ambode LLB, FIPMD the author of the book titled CHIEF SEGUN ADEGOKE, POLITICS OF IDEOLOGY AND POLITICS

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OF THE PEOPLE: INTROSPECTION, RETROSPECTION AND REFLECTION presented in honour of Chief Segun Adegoke. He applauded Yoruba leaders for their steadfastness in the achievement of the Yoruba course. He added that it is very essential to celebrate our legends while they are alive. Presenting the book, the Chairman of the occasion Chief Ayo Adebanjo congratulates the celebrant at 78. in his speech he thanked all that graced the occasion and commended the author and the Planning Committee for a well packaged to celebrate a legend. He said he has known Adegoke for years as a die-hard supporter of the late sage; Chief Obafemi Awolowo especially in loyalty and was happy to attend this occa-

sion as event chairman. He congratulated the Chief Segun Adegoke @ 78. He added that he has known Chief Adegoke for is ideology, focus, style, action and deeds. He is his steadfastness, bravity, honesty and prudence. He said unlike many, Adegoke is not a sycophant. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is a democrat who believe in the principles of stronger argumentâ&#x20AC;?. He said he listened carefully to the reviewer and the author to discover that Chief Adegoke is truly a God-sent to Ondo State and Nigeria. As a young man, Adegoke has displayed a high sense of commitment and responsibility. He urged the general public to read the book critically and learn the essence of celebrating our leaders.

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Book Presentation

Chief Sehinde Arowogbofa

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PA, Ayo Adebanjo

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Dignitries at the event

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Dignitries at the event

Some Special dignitaries at the event: Chief Ayo Adebanjo Chief Seinde Arogbofa Sen. Bode Olajumoke Sen. Kunlere Boluwaji Eyitayo Jegede SAN. Chief Taiwo Akinkugbe Prof. A. Abiodun Chief (Dr.) Eddy Olafeso Engr. (Hon.) Clement Faboyede Dr. Tayo Dairo Chief O.B.A. Akingboye Barr. Chief Olusola Nehemiah Ebiseni Chief Jubril Fawehinmi Chief Mrs. Olufunmiloye Chief Goddey Erewa Chief Gbakinro Hon. Mrs. Kemi Adesanya Ayo Fadaka Sir Chief Ayo Akingbule Hon. Dayo Akinsoyinu Hon. Mrs. Cecilia Fayase State Executive of the Ondo State PDP Nigerian Bar Association, Ondo West Leaders of PDP, Ondo West, among others

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Testimony

Dishonest Politicians Should Learn from Chief Segun Adegoke How To Be Honest In Politics - Iyaloja CHIEF (MRS.) IWALOLA ADEFEMIWA, the Iyaloja of Ondo Kingdom, and Aare Iyaloja of Ondo State says in the following interview that Chief Segun Adegoke is generosity personified….. and a Cheerful giver; he’s always cheerful and happy with people’ success. My advice to other politicians is that, they should not be stingy and dishonest, they should be generous and people-minded like Chief Adegoke. The politicians and their followers should emulate him as well.

What do you know about Chief Adegoke? I know him as a good man, he is my husband junior brother and we live in the same area. I have known him for over 30 years; he is a nice man to my family. How would you describe him as a person and politician? He is a leader of leaders, honest man, a great lawyer like late Gani Fawehinmi, SAN. In politics, he is a great politician with honour, a man of justice. He is a straightforward man, always saying the truth. He will tell you to your face if he would support you or not. He is a politician someone can boast of at all time. What memorable experience do you have with him? He always supports me financially any time and any day I see him, especially during my installation as Iyaloja of Ondo

Kingdom and as Aare Iyaloja of Ondo State. What morals do you think people should learn from him? He is a honest man, he is a good leader

What do you wish him at 78? I wish him God’s protection over his family, good health and Long life. By God’s grace, he will celebrate 200 years because he is looking handsome and shining like sweet sixteen. To me, he will continue to grow from glory to glory. I pray that Oba Dr. Kiladejo, the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom would continue to reign more and more. There will be peace in Ondo kingdom, there will be peace in our market in Jesus name.

Congratulations On behalf of all Market Women in Ondo kingdom, we congratulate our amiable Chief Segun Adegoke on the occasion of his 78th Birthday Celebration. Wishing you good health and longlife.

Happy Birthday sir, Chief (Mrs.) Iwalola Adefemiwa (Iyaloja General)

hearty cheers

to a worthy leader and a man of exceptional courage!!!

The leadership and members of Ondo State PDP Committee of Elders rejoice with our leader and BOT member, Chief Segun Adegoke on the occasion of his 78th birthday. We pray that God will endow him with many more years in good health for service to humanity.

Dr. Omotayo Dairo

Chairman, Elders Committee PDP Ondo State

Felicitation This is wishing our dear uncle, Chief Segun Adegoke, one of Nigeriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foremost and most enduring political Leaders, happy birthday! Many happy returns of the day sir, Igba odun, odun kan ni o, lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oruko Jesu. Amin. Prof. Femi

Mimiko,MNI,

Gbobaniyi of Ondo Kingdom.

Testimony

He Is A Man With Unmistakable Focus On Progress Of Individuals And The Community - Sekoni PROF. ROPO SEKONI has known Chief Segun Adegoke for over 7 decades. They were both students of Ondo Boys’ High School, and worked together too at the Oﬃce of Statistics when they both left OBHS. He spoke to us about the man they fondly called O’Franco in their school days, his strengths, aspirations and ambition…. How long have you known Chief Adegoke? I have known Chief Segun Adegoke for about 70 years, first as a young boy in Okedasa Street, just two streets from Okerowo Street, where I grew up. But I had the opportunity for close relationship and friendship with him after I entered Ondo Boys’ High School in January 1958. We got much closer in 1961 when we were both in Form IV Arts Class under the principalship of Canon J. A. Iluyomade, when students were classified into Arts or Science classes in Class IV. The academic strengths of both of us and other lifelong friends, such as Lambe Akintomide, Ejire Akinlose, were more in the direction of the humanities than in the sciences. We sat next to each other in that class, where a friendship that is still strong in our 70’s first germinated. What is your relationship with him? Although geography and later age, do not allow us to see each other as we used to in our pre-professional days, our friendship is still as warm as it was in our youthful years. It is the mutuality of this feeling that must have justified my name being suggested for this interview. And I appreciate Chief Adegoke for the honour and privilege. What is your description of his person? O’Franco, as we affectionately called him in the 1960s, is a complex character but one with an unmistakable focus on

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progress of individuals and the community. From his youth, he had been preoccupied with the cause of justice, egalitarianism, and inclusiveness. For example, he was a member of a social club in OBHS,

Metro-Golden, a prestigious social club that was behind organization of dance, picnics, and other social events in OBHS and Ondo town during vacations in those days, in addition to annual dances organ-

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Testimony ized by Ondo Students at the University of Ibadan. It was Adegoke that exposed the elitist character of Metro-Golden, then populated by distinguished young Ondo men. The disagreement between Adegoke and Metro-Golden members who were senior to him broke into the open. Adegoke displayed when he took the disagreement to popularize his oratorical skills during an opportunity given him by the club to defend himself for criticizing some of the policies of the club. Of course, the club suspended Adegoke thereafter, not realizing that he had already organized a new social club designed to be more inclusive than Metro-Golden by allowing members from all academic levels, unlike the restriction of Metro-Golden to senior classes. Youth Social Circle with members from junior and senior classes eventually replaced Metro-Golden and lasted longer than any club in the history of OBHS, due to its inclusiveness that also promoted policies of continuity that attracted members from lower classes from year to year. This club further deepened our friendship. He was the first chairman and I was the first publicity secretary/master of ceremony at all its events. How would you describe his political impact? In our generation, Adegoke has been the most impactful politically. He had been very political from school and was clear about what he wanted to become after leaving school. He used to say in the boarding house that he would go to London to study law and eventually go into politics. He realized both dreams. He and Mimiko, had stayed the longest in politics in Ondo Kingdom, having worked for several administrations in Ondo State from Adekunle Ajasin to Adefarati, and then beyond Adefarati in the case of Ex. Gov. Dr Olusegun. Mimiko. That Chief Adegoke is still relevant in Ondo politics in his late 70s is instructive. Despite occasional ideological differences between us, I appreciate his political energy till today. What would you count as your memorable experience with him? One experience is the one I had

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described in relation to his struggle with the famous Metro-Golden Club around 1960. Another one is when he suggested that a few of us that were members of Youth Social Circle in our class find a place to study beyond 10:30 pm. I was struck then by his creativity and courage. We had narrowly missed being caught by Canon Iluyomade many nights while reading after ‘Light-out’ at 11 pm. We used to light our kerosene lamp and read with it under our bed sheets. Many times, Adegoke, whose bed was very close to the window on the side of the principal’s house was able to sight Iluyomade from far enough for us to snuff out the light before being caught and quickly fake being in slumber, snoring loud whenever the principal came close to the windows to our hostel in Afro Hall. This was a room that brought students from various houses-Adeyemi, Osemawe, School to create a special boarding space for like-minded students, where punishment of juniors was not a common practice. Junior students liked coming to Afro Hall, largely because of the preference of the senior students in the room for rational discussion than punishment as a way of resolving issues. O’Franco suggested that we rent for one or two shillings a small bungalow outside the gate into which we escaped after “light-out’ to study and from there we ran back to the campus with little difficulty when we became sleepy. The room was just big enough to contain a few of us and a small table in the centre of the room with our kerosene lamp on top of it. The room was unbearably hot during the dry season. We did not last there because the windows could not be opened at night for fresh air in the interest of safety. Knowing that I had a special relationship (unknown to the group of friends) with the principal, who served as unofficial guardian for reasons not relevant to this occasion, I complained about the trouble of leaving the comfort of the boarding house to squeeze ourselves into a small dingy room across from the school gate at the most dangerous hour of the night. O’Franco, a man rich in English vocabulary, first waved it off as phobia on my

part. I did not relent in my complaints. Later, he said we should submit the matter to debate and vote, arguing forcefully about the need to overcome our fears as we search for additional reading hours in preparation for our Cambridge examinations. We voted, his proposition failed, he accepted the new decision, and we ended the temporary tenancy. So was his respect for democratic principles at that early age! The third observation is about his generosity. At OBHS, those close to him experienced this generosity in contributions to club activities and whenever he went to spend his holiday in Lagos and brought some mementos to those of us who did not travel at that time. After we had left OBHS, many of us got jobs at the Office of Statistics. He was there, I was there, and a few other classmates of us. He was staying with his uncle in Igbosere, Mr. Fasida, a lawyer. His and a cousin of his, Gbile were there. O’Franco’s room became a new meeting place for many of us at the Office of Statistics, not just because of the proximity of Obalende to Igbosere but also because of Adegoke’s generosity. What moral values should younger people learn from him? His commitment to democracy as a means of social organization, his generosity, his bravery, and his readiness to bury the hatchet whenever such existed between him and other folks—whether in politics or in inter-personal relations. What is your wish for him as he turns 78? First, I send Chief Adegoke apologies that I will be out of the country during the celebration for reasons of personal medical panel beating. I wish him many more years of good health, continued relevance to the aspirations of his community, and fruitful interactions with his family and friends. Any word of advice for Chief Adegoke? A 78-year old man needs very little advice; he must have lived his life without excesses. Knowing how much he used to savor beer, I will urge him to transfer fully to red wine, an alcoholic beverage that is more suited to an ageing heart.

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Testimony

He Is A Legend Of Ondo State Politics - Olafeso National Vice Chairman of the PDP South West, OLOGUN EDDY OLAFESO PhD speaks about the man he describes as a man of honour, dignity and integrity…. How long have known Chief Segun Adegoke? We served together in the cabinet of Dr. Olusegun Agagu between 2007 and 2009, He was a Special Adviser (Political) to Dr. Olusegun Agagu. Prior to that time, Chief Segun Adegoke has been a legend of Ondo State politics. He’s a man of honour, dignity and integrity and carries himself with all the aristocratic posture that any well respected Ondo man can carry himself. For someone who grew up under his tutelage, I’m always excited to be around him. He is currently a member of the Board of Trustee of the PDP. But prior to that, he has actually put well over 50 years in politics in Ondo. He is standing on the side of truth and a very highly progressive person. And all I am wishing him is a wonderful 78th birthday celebration. A forthright, very honest, sincere person, who tells it as it is with integrity. What will you count as your memorable experience with him? My most memorable experience was when I took Chief Segun Adegoke to NTA to defend the position of our party, the Peoples Democratic Party in Ondo State. He stood his ground and for 1 hour, the man dealt a very severe blow on the opposition. From that moment on, they began to respect his intellectual capacity and his ability to actually confront real issues about development in the state. From that moment, he became very endeared to me.

the entire Ondo state to fight the invasion of the NPN then to get the slot of the people of Ondo state. He has shown tremendous promise from early in his life and he has not changed.

Tell us about his impact in Ondo politics? You cannot talk about politics in Ondo State without talking about Chief Segun Adegoke. He was a Commissioner at a young age of just above 30 years, who during the 1983 crisis was able to mobilize

Recently he was made a member of the Board of Trustees of PDP, what do you think made that possible? It is because of his contribution. In the last election, you recollect a former governor defected to another party and being an

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What are the morals that you think young people should learn from his person? Resilience, intellectual capacity, ability to tell it as it is. He doesn’t play politics with what he believes in. He’s a straight-forward man, constantly fighting for others; he’s a warrior for justice.

Ondo man, Chief Adegoke do not work on the basis of emotion. He stood his ground and fought for the party that he believes in. And that is why we are able to produce the Senator of the Ondo State Central Senatorial District which is the contribution of Chief Segun Adegoke. That is why I recommended him for the position of member of the Board of Trustees of the PDP. For his outstanding loyalty to the party, I don’t think there is anything that will be too much we can ever do for him in his lifetime. What’s your wish for him, Sir? I wish him a happy birthday; I wish him to continue to enjoy his life. And we’ll pray to God Almighty to Grant him long life to enjoy the fruit of his labour.

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Testimony

He Is An Extremely Courageous Politician - Diaro DR. OMOTAYO DIARO, a medical doctor and also a politician in the following interview, shares with us his relationship details with Chief Segun Adegokeâ&#x20AC;Ś. How much of Chief Adegoke do you know? I was one of the young men that Chief Segun Adegoke started to bring up far back as 1978 when we were in the Unity Party of Nigeria. He was one of the active mobilisers then and also the youngest politician at that time. Himself and some other politicians were my political leaders then. How would you describe him? He is an extremely courageous politician, strong fighter and a deep thinker. He is somebody that I was privileged to work under; he is a fantastic leader. He is a man you can rely upon once he gives you his word, and a leader that is highly respected. What moral lesson should people learn from him? Chief Segun Adegoke is known for being very courageous, firm and consistent in his convictions. It may take you a very long time to be able to get him on your side but when he is, you can really rely on him. They were the foundation of moral politics, the Awolowo disciples. And it still reflects in his life. He is a highly disciplined man.

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What are your personal experience with him? Many of the political tricks and strategies I use today are what I acquired under him. What are your wishes for him as he clocks 78?

If you see him, you will think that he is in his 60s but you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know that very soon he will be 80. I wish him the best; I wish him very good health so that, we will be able to benefit from his experience, be able to refer difficult cases to him as our leader. I wish him long life and that his later days will be better than the former.

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Greetings from PDP Planning Committe Members

AKINJOPO FESTUS FEMI

akinwunmiju sileola bridget

Alh AGBAJE LANRE

Chief Clement Akinnodi

Hon. Adebisi L. Williams( Hon. janta) HON. AKINSOLA OMOLADE

HON. RUFUS AKINYEMI OJIKUTU ( ACTING CHAIRMAN)

Mr femi makinwa ( committee secretary)

Hon. Rasheed Akinbolaji ( Chairman)

Mrs Kayode Tokunbo

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Mrs Adeniyi Christianah

Hon. Yemi Omotayo

Ige Oladipo

Mrs Enikuomehin Olanrewaju

Bro Oluwole Robert

Mrs Iyabo Akinkuotu

okeowo abimbola

Mrs Bukola Tomori

olakunle martins( Adoration)

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Greetings from PDP WARD ONDO WEST YOUTH LEADERS

Akinfolarin Mayokun w4 Falegan Dickson W1

Olayemi Kolawole W5

Adeniyio Jonathan w2

Olayemi Kolawole W5

Adebayo Timothy w6

Muritala Salami W7 Omogunloye Festus W8

Ige Oladipo W9 Waheed Osundele W10

Adesuyan Olamide w11

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Oyewole Adekunle ( L.G YOUTH LEADER)

Akinnawo Folorunso W12

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Birthday Greetings from PDP ONDO WEST WOMEN LEADERS

Adebayo Ruphinah(1)

Mrs Ademakinwa Bukola (ward 3)

Rasaki Afusat(2)

mrs ademakinwa bukola (ward 3)

Olayinka Dupe (4)

Adedokun Sade(5)

Olafusi Caroline (11)

J.p Mrs Igbekoyi Elizabeth Omolabake(Women Leader)

Aina Caroline (Ward 7)

Ayodeji Sileola(Ward 12)

Helen Olabisi(Ward 9)

Akinsola Kikelomo (Ward 10)

Birthday Greetings from PDP ONDO WEST WARD CHAIRMEN

Gabriel Alagbe ( Ward 2)

Mr Femi Makinwa ( Chairman Of All Chairman) Ward 3

Olanipekun Oluwagbemiga( Ward 1) Dele Babalola( Ward 5)

olanipekun oluwagbemiga ( ward 1)W

Adedokun Sade(5)

Okeowo Abimbola Chairman Ward 11 Chief Cl;Ement Akinnodi( Ward 6)

Sunday David ( Ward 10)

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Mr Akinnawonu Valentine ( PDP Ward 8)

Prince(Dr) Walter Oluremi Adegbonmire ( Ward 7)

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Testimony

He Is The Father Of All Politicians In Ondo Kingdom -JISE CHIEF JISE AKINMURELE, a retired civil servant, is the Itamporo of Ondo Kingdom. He talks to us about the man, Chief Segun Adegoke. How would you describe Chief Adegoke? Chief Segun Adegoke is my cousin, we hail from Otokola dynasty, which we are very proud of. We have a long history of very important people that have changed the history of this town. We were class mates in the primary school and in Ondo Boys High School (OBHS). At a time, he left for London and went to the United States of America and we came back home around the same time. So I don t think there is anybody that knows Chief Segun Adegoke better than I do. He is someone who was bound to be great because when we were in primary school he played the role of a lawyer in those days. So I was not surprised that he ended up being a very successful lawyer. He went into politics while I was in the Civil Service. He is such a brilliant person and a voice to reckon with in Nigerian politics. We call him now great leader because he is a leader any day. I added the prefix ‘Great to the leader. He is bold, not just in politics, he has been like that all his life. And over the years, he has done enough things that can be possibly documented in a book. He was at a point the youngest in the State Executive Council of Ondo State. What memorable moment with him do you remember? I remember so well an incident that almost led to our death. I was in OSBC and I had to go to Ugbonla to interview Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Adegoke was the publicity secretary of the Action Group in Ondo State. So we went in the same boat, the rest is history but thank God that we are alive today. There is this particular incident that I will never forget. When Amb. Olumilua became the governor of Ondo State, and it

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was time to share positions, I contested for the Deputy Governorship position with Agagu but God made Agagu the deputy governor. When it was time to share position, Chief Segun Adegoke and myself went to see the governor in the evening and the Governor said let them give me the Chairmanship of Electricity Board. And Agagu said, “no Sir, you cannot give him that because he is not an engineer. Chief Adegoke opposed him before the Governor, asking him, “who are you and what is your profession?” You are geologist, and you are holding a Deputy Governor s position. I was the one he was defending, I was right there but his boldness and the reason he gave helped to resolve the matter. What impact do you think he has made in Ondo kingdom? He is the father of all politicians in Ondo Kingdom, he made everybody that has been anything in this Kingdom; we

all passed through him. He is a bit older than myself but we all regard and respect him as a leader. Because he is selfless leader, he is very passionate about the development of Ondo Kingdom. He loves everything that will bring development to this kingdom. And he supports anybody who wants to be anything that will bring development especially in the political circle. What are your wish for him at 78? Chief Segun Adegoke is a man of the people and as such he has no choice than celebrate his birthday. I wish him very many happy returns of the day. At 78, he is still looking very young. Fortunately, God has given him children that he is proud of. God has compensated his effort in service to the people. By the grace of God, he will enjoy more opportunity to serve his people and do more work in this kingdom.

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Testimony

Love Him Or Hate Him, Chief Adegoke Has Made His Mark In Politics - Jegede EYITAYO JEGEDE, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), is the immediate past Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, having served for over seven and a half years in this capacity. In the following interview, he talks about the correlation between one’s profession and politics and why all are geared to service to the people…..

Can we know a little more about your political status? I was a candidate for the PDP in the governorship election of Ondo State on the 26th of November 2016. Before then, I was the Attorney General of Ondo State for over seven and a half years. I served under Governor Mimiko’s administration from 2009 until I resigned on the 22nd of July 2016 to contest for the office the Governor of Ondo State in the 2016 governorship election. For how long have you known Chief Segun Adegoke and what’s your relationship with him? I have known Chief Segun Adegoke since 1980, he was a Commissioner under Chief Micheal Ajasin in the old Ondo State in 1983. He was one of the youngest in the cabinet, interestingly at that time, I was much younger. I was still in the university studying law while Chief Segun Adegoke had qualified as a lawyer. He has made a mark for himself, a man who has a wide political experience, a lawyer of so many years. What’s your relationship with him like, Sir? Chief Adegoke was very close to late Hon. Alex Adedipe. He was then the Majority Leader of the House of Assembly; he was representing Akure constituency while Adegoke is from Ondo town. But somehow they were the true lieuten-

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ants of Chef Ajasin. Late Alex Adedipe happened to be my in-law, he’s married to my elder sister. That was when I met Chief Adegoke and I took interest in his person.

How would you describe his personality? I’ve always told Chief Segun Adegoke privately that he should disclose to all the secrets of him always looking so young

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Testimony despite his age. Each time I asked him, he just smiled without response. I request you help me ask him to tell us the secret. My assessment of him is that whether you like him or you don’t like him, you must respect him because he has made his mark and nature has been very kind to him. I also know as a matter of fact that he has built a big political cloud that he has been able to sustain up till now. He is a strong leader of the PDP, he is currently a member of the Board of Trustees at the national level. We have a professional relationship. What would you count as your memorable experience with him? I’ve always had personal contact with him. If you can recall, I was in the old Labour Party under Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, l recall that Chief Segun Adegoke had always been in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). But some of us, our relationship with people transcend political boundaries. I’ve always respected him, he has good and great control of English language and he is legal practitioner. In Your opinion, do you think he has made so much political impact on the people? Yes, political impact to the entire State, not about individuals, he is a total political leader. Before you can lay claim to political leadership, you must have personal relationship with your friends, followership and party leaders. He is a member of the Board of Trustees of the PDP and I belong to the PDP; he is a leader eminently qualified in that respect. What morals do you think people should learn from him? First, my admiration for him is premised on the fact that despite the prominence of politics in his life, he has retained his professional colour as a legal practitioner. I know that Chief Segun Adegoke, even at the age of 78 years now, still go to his Chamber. He climbs the staircase to sit in his office and still superintend his law firm. I have great respect for people who other than politics, hold on to their profession. They know their profession and politics is for service to the people. Are you saying that politics should not

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be a full-time job for politicians? I’ll be very straight and strict about this, politics is about service, politics is a process for you to achieve governance to serve the people. Politics is an addition, a demonstration of your love for the people, not to milk the people. It should be on a basis to serve the people, that is why I believe that no matter the vocation you belong, whether you are a trader, a teacher, a doctor, or a lawyer, a lecturer, a farmer, I think that you should hold onto politics and governance; it’s about service to the people. Your profession or job takes you to another realm of service. The highest thing in politics is a political office, either elective office or appointed office. And once you are done with that service, you go back to your profession and continue to live and earn your living, and also continue to help your people. In government or out of government, there is in my view, a dividing line. What is that dividing line? The dividing line is that you do not forget your part because politics is about service to the people. Let’s take a look at Chief Obafemi Awolowo, he has a thriving legal practice yet, he was a politician

all his life. It was easy for him to continue to maintain his principle as this is what I want to do for the people. So transiting from a political office into private life or from private life into a political office shouldn’t be a difficult thing. If you know that political office is a transient office, very temporary, what will sustain you all through is your job or your profession no matter what you do for a living. whether you are a teacher, a trader, a farmer, the doctor or whatever, your profession should be a means of sustaining yourself and not to be looting from the State or drawing money from tax paid by the market women or drivers in the name of politics. Politics should be giving back to the people, not taking away from the people; that is why you must have your own job before you talk about politics. What do you wish him as he clocks 78? I wish Chief Segun Adegoke many more years in good health. I wish him the sustenance of the political platform that God has given to him to serve his people and wish him well in his service to Ondo State and Nigeria.

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Testimony

He Is A Very Nice, Responsible Man - Cleric REV. DR. OKUNADE MODUPE, retired Provost of the Cathedral Church of St. Stephen, Oke Aluko, Ondo Kingdom, provides insight into how much he knows Chief Segun Adegoke….. What is your relationship with Chief Adegoke and for how long have you known him? We attended the same secondary school, we were both at Ondo Boys’ High school. I was senior to him with either 2 or 3 years. We belonged to the same church society at All Saints Church and the name of the society was Morning Star Society. His late father was a member; my late father was a member. Morning Star Society is now essentially composed of children or grandchildren of the former members. How would you describe his personality? Chief Segun is articulate, he speaks good English with full force. He can be argumentative, that’s why am not surprised he became a lawyer. He is a very nice person, he gives me good measure of respect and I don’t know why, he is responsible. When he was Commissioner for Lands and Housing, I was in Akure and anytime I visited his office, you will fill a form. But anytime I filled the form and as soon as they take it to him, he would always call me in, he doesn’t allow me to wait. There was also a day I came to see him, after filling the form, he asked me to come in. And when I got in, he was holding a meeting, and I said Chief, this respect is too much please. We also leave very close to each other. He is pleasant. What would you say about his political endeavours? I don’t know the party he belongs to now but I know he has always been a party stalwart, that’s all I can say about him.

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What memorable experience did you ever have with him? We have a culture at Ondo Boys’ High School that says once you are a senior, you are a senior forever. And whenever he sees me, he calls me my senior prefect. What morals should people learn from him?

He is forthright, he is outspoken; he speaks his mind. What are your wishes for him? I wish him robust health, many happy returns of the day. I wish him long life, prosperity and whatever is left of his age to spend on earth, he will spend it with joy, happiness and good health.

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Testimony

He Is A Man Of All Parts

- Akingbule

SIR, CHIEF AYO AKINGBULE, one of the pioneer politicians in the second republic, in the following interview ex-rays the early days of Chief Segun Adegoke, his political life and participation in community and church development, and describes him as a great man and total leader….. What’s your relationship with him and how long have you known him? Chief Adegoke the barrister, is a great man, he was our leader in the political circle. Immediately after the coup, the Muritala/Obasanjo coup in 1975, the local government system was introduced. And part of the programmes to bring in people from the grassroots to participate in politics, and control their houses and villages, was the local government creation and the 1978 multi-party system embarked upon. He was the leader then and late Aunty Janet was there too; they were the major grassroots leaders at that time. He was the one that invited Aunty Janet to participate in the local government. They were the leaders of Zero party, chosen by merit by the military governor that period. And he led the local government till the formation of parties in 1978/1979 when he a leader in the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN). He was even the youngest commissioner; he was about 34 years old then. And by the end of 1983, when the mil-

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itary took over from the civilians, he was around mobilizing people to really work on how the military could leave power quickly. But unfortunately, the military still remained in power, and when the Iroko group started in1985, the Ondo Study group, we were looking at him up there. Our intention was to have a youth-oriented group and by then, Chief Adegoke should be about 14 to 15 years older than most of us. We were looking at that as a gap, but he led the total community. He was the one who encouraged Ex-Gov Mimiko of Ondo State to go into politics. He led us all through. There was also a time he was penciled down to be the deputy governor of Ondo State in 1999, but later didn’t work out. How would you describe his person? Chief Adegoke has been a very great man in Ondo kingdom. He is a wonderful man, he is a man of all parts and he plays all the parts excellently. I remember when I had a court case over 3 years ago, someone

entered my land and started selling it. We were in the court for 2 years, and there was none of the brilliant judges there that won’t mention his name; they would all refer to him. I thank God I was able to attend those court sessions; it was like going for degree programme. Almost every one of them referred to his exploit in the bar. And when you talk about politics, he is a star yet, he has been very supportive to the church and the community. What ‘s your most memorable experience with him? One is on the bar side; which I know he will never forget. We had a programme on Ondo Agenda, and as an initiator, we were copying and studying his system and also looking for ways of putting in some new things without hiding from the fact that he is our leader. At the symposium, Dr. Mimiko was just a very young doctor as at then and other scholars came. When Chief Adegoke gave us his speech, it was so torching and moving, which made the crowd want to

Testimony follow his ideology. So Dr. Mimiko brought in his own which angered Chief so much. But instead of him having any direct confrontation with Dr. Mimiko, I intervened and was very crossed at me but, Then I said Sir, you are our leader here. He said no you people planned a coup against me. And truly, they used that symposium against him. Another memorable experience was when he fully returned back to the church, he greatly influenced almost all the elderly people of his age. He is a wonderful man, and anything he decided to do, he does it perfectly. He has done a lot of projects and it has always been God first since he came back.

What moral lesson should people learn from him? He is a very outspoken, fearless person; anything he believes in, you can’t stop him. If he wants to confront you, he confronts you directly, letting you to know what you have done wrong. He is very straight forward and uncompromising. What are your wishes for him? I wish him long life and prosperity. I believe he is still young, by God’s grace, we will celebrate 80, 90 and above. One thing I also like about his life style is that if you offend him, he will tell you; he doesn’t carry it in mind, he has a jovial life, and he is a leader of leaders.

Congratulation to an out outstanding tstanding scholar of Jurisprudence

@78

I, Dayo Akinsoyinu Congratulate Chief Segun Adegoke as he turns 78 today. I wish him many more fruitful years and service to his fatherland in good health, prosperity and joy of the heart. Long may you Live, Leader of Leaders! Happy Birthday Sir.

Diary

As A Party Man, Chief Segun Adegoke Picks His Battle and Fights It Tenaciously - Fadaka AYO FADAKA, the Zonal Publicity Secretary of the South West Zone of the PDP in the following interview, recalls some of the good attributes of Chief Segun Adegoke that stand him out as a courageous politicianâ&#x20AC;Ś How do you know Chief Adegoke and for how long? I first met him in 1982 when I was a part one student in the then University of Ife. I was the secretary of studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s union of Ondo State in Ife so I met him in pursuit of the bursary award of students of the University of Ife from Ondo State. When we came pursuing that award at that time was when government was having challenges of paying salaries, and it was the time bursaries were no longer regular for the students. So it was my brief to meet with Chief Adegoke who then was the Commissioner for Information in Ondo State and to discuss with him on how we would get our bursary award. When I met him, I met a very young man, vibrant, intimidating and restless. I told him what I wanted to do and the first word that came out of his mouth was

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look, you students have to take it easy. And I said Sir, am not here because we want to take things easy, this is an issue for government to address. I have decided to come to you but not the Commissioner for Education because we are not taking it easy. And he asked us to sit down. Then we sat down with him, we negotiated, and by the end of the day, we were able to get bursary for Ondo students at the University of Ife. I must say that since I met him, I have grown to know him as a man that is ready to do anything if you rise up for him to do it for you. He is a man that respects you when you hold your ground. So, we became friends as young has I was. Shortly after my university, the military came and everything scattered. I got to meet him again when we were starting the SDP in those days. By then,

I was already a young graduate, working in the media but wanted a career in politics. So I met him again and reminded him that we knew; I met him in the company of my late Uncle, Hon. Alex Adedipe who was his soulmate. It was my uncle that took me to him again and we opened the line of communication all over again. And from then till now, we have been in contact. Of course, politics is an unstable water; there has been times we have been at opposing ends particularly at a time when I was the director of publicity of PDP in Ondo State. When occasions demanded that I should give him some knocks, I never spared him. And rather than take it to the heart, he will just call me and pour out his heart as it is, and at the end of the day, he will say you write very well not minding that the writing was directed against him. That is the

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Testimony kind of person Chief Adegoke is, he takes nothing to the heart. How would you describe him? Chief is a very, very intelligent man, he is a man that cares about everything he does to the minimal details. Even his appearance, he does not joke with it. For everything he has to do, he does very serious, he is a man of deep convictions, once he is convinced he wants to stay by you, he does not weaver. He is not a man anyone can intimidate, no matter how big or strong you are, he is so tenacious. As a party man, Chief picks his battle and fights it tenaciously. He always believes in his party and takes every action to defend his party and accentuate the goals of the party. He is the kind of fighter that you need beside you in the trenches when there is need to prosecute

serious political battles. And you can be sure that victory will be yours. He is a man whose commitment to the party is always strong. I remember then in the UPN when some people were planning to decamp from the party or sabotage the party he believed in, he was up in arms against them, him and Hon. Alex Adedipe. And they seriously took action to make sure that the interest of the party was protected. I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t play politics in the UPN with him but we have played in two other different parties together, and what I have always known is that for each party we have to wage wars, Chief was always solidly on course. He sustained the belief of his followers and always put them in the right track we all have to follow.

have with him? It was the battle that we waged together, his solid character and the discipline he inspires in people when you are fighting together for a just course., when we needed to take action. When this action is accomplished it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remove the respect we have for each other. I am a younger man and I respect him so well. Are there morals people can learn from him? Focus, in all you do, you should remain focused, you should be selfless and Spartan in the pursuit of your belief. YOUR WISH FOR HIM AT 78, I wish him Happy Birthday, good health, many more years and God blessing.

What memorable experience did you

Felicitation Our father, Mentor and Teacher, on this occasion of your birthday, we join all wellwishers to celebrate the Goodness of God upon your life. May God continue to uplift you.

OYEWOLE ADEKUNLE

PDP Ondo west youth

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Testimony

He’s A Factor In The Political Calculation Of Ondo State Any Day, Any Time - Adeyemi HON. PRINCE ADEMOLA ADEYEMI was a Special Assistant to different governors of Ondo State. He was also a two-time Vice Chairman of Ondo West Local Government Area, and currently, the Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Ondo West. He attributes all these appointments to God and Chief Segun Adegoke whom he said taught them to be loyal and consistent at all times…. What is your relationship with Chief Adegoke, and how long have you known him? I have known him now for the past 26years. My relationship with him is like a son. Of course, you know l am married to one of his daughters, he is a mentor, a teacher and my God-father so to say. First and foremost, he is a brilliant man in every facet, a philosopher of our time. He loves brilliant and hardworking young men and women that have good morals. He hates laziness and he cannot also stand indiscipline from any young person. He is very blunt to a fault, consistent, strong political guru too who over the years since the second republic, has always had his own loyal, dedicated admirers and supporters, who are his diehards any day, any time. He’s a factor in the political calculation of Ondo State any day, any time. And he has been like that for years. Chief Adegoke is also a cheerful giver and he is always ready to assist his people anytime; above all, he is a neat man. A lot of our big politicians we have today actually passed through the tutelage of this great man His political impact is very, very strong, both in his home town here and in Ondo State because over the time, people of this Sunshine State have come

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Testimony to know that Chief Adegoke will at any given time say what he sees and feels, and nothing but the truth about any crucial issues without any fear. How would you describe him as a person and politician? He is always a factor in the political arithmetic of Ondo Kingdom and Ondo State all the time. And may be because he was trained abroad, Chief Adegoke is always positive at anytime. He is not like some cunning politicians of today that are full of lies, backbiting and treacheries. You can rely and count on him at anytime, very straight-forward a man, maybe because he belongs to the old breed. Above all, he loves his disciples and his followers and we too, believe seriously in his leadership and his capabilities at all times in every area. And over the years, his impact in the political landscape of Ondo kingdom and Ondo State had remained very, very strong because he is not an autocratic leader. If he wants to take any germane political decision, he will call all his followers for a discussion and whatever we agree upon, even if it is short of his expectations, that is what he will do. Most a times he does take many decisions and sacrifices because of his followers and this is one of the reasons behind the absolute loyalty we have for him at all times. What is your memorable experience with him? To be frank with you, my memorable period with him was when he was contesting for president of this country in 1993. The option A4 of a thing was introduced then by Prof. Humphrey Nwosu. As early as 7:00am, we were all there at Awosika Primary School, Yaba, Ondo. We mobilized people there heavily to vote for him and at about 10:00 am, another Ondo son who was in government as a Commissioner in the state came in. And the man who came from Akure to conduct the election addressed the people and said “today we are here to cast our votes for

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one person and thank God we only have one person contesting, and he is your son, so let’s just cast our vote for him so that we can leave this place as soon as possible.” This man made this statement in both Yoruba and English languages. And all of a sudden, one fairly old man who happened to be the father in-law of the late Chief Oti Orisa came out and asked the man, “what of if you don’t want to vote for him?” Although, some of us that were there knew that this man was instigated to ask such question. It should be noted too that as at that period, Chief Adegoke was just coming out fresh from the ban placed on the old politicians by Babangida, coupled with the fact that the Commissioner that came to the field to show ego and supremacy, came with a lot of money he shared to people to vote against Chief. This led to a physical fight between these two good brothers. And during the period of this fight, many of the people we mobilized to vote for our leaders left because of fear and we lost the election with 26 votes. However, we thank God today that the two leader’s l am talking about today- Chief Segun Adegoke and Dr. Olusegun Mimiko are good friends and

brothers today. But there are occasions when issues like this must come up for us upcoming leaders to learn one or two lessons that at least nothing absolutely nothing is permanent in this life. What morals can people learn from him? People should learn to be upright, consistent, loyal and be disciplined and be fearless in speaking nothing but the truth at all times. And one should be closer to God at all times. These are the things Chief Adegoke used to tell us at all times. According to him, a time will definitely come that people will come to know and appreciate you for what you are What do you wish him as he turns 78? He has produced many leaders, almost all notable politicians passed through his political school in this kingdom and that is why some of us do call him GREAT LEADER! As he turns 78 today, l wishes him many happy returns of the day in good health and long life. I will always pray for him that the grace of God shall continue to be abundant with him. At 78, Chief Adegoke is a very good old boy.

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Testimony

He’s A Man Interested In Making Other People Succeed In Life - Ajayi CHIEF (MRS.) EUNICE TITILAYO AJAYI, I am the Otun Iya Laje of Owena, a notable business woman and Chief Executive Oﬃcer, New Choice General Business Limited. She bares her mind on the man Chief Segun Adegoke and what stands him out…… What do you know about Chief Segun Adegoke, and for how long have you known him? Chief Segun Adegoke is my father, he is my mentor. He is a man of the people, my adviser, my brother, he is my family member and he is good to me. And I am one of his lovely daughters though not by birth, but I have known him since 1970. How would you describe him? Chief Adegoke is a great man, he is a successful man that is always after other people’ success. A respected and notable man, he is always there for the youth, and he is a man you can be proud of anywhere. Anytime I look back and find Chief Adegoke behind me, am always confident, happy and joyful (Ti bari Balogun leyin mi, Inumi anu arami a ya ga ga .). Anytime he waves at me, when I see him, that day will surely be good for me.

What morals do want people to learn from him? He is a man of justice, honour, he’s truthful, straightforward, and a man with good characters. He is a man with a good name, up till now. I believe he will continue till Jesus will come. I have been emulating him as well in my business, so people should emulate him as well.

What memorable experience did you ever have with him? He has always been there for me and my family. There was an incident that occurred in my matrimonial home, he stood his ground and settled the matter. He is a man of peace and justice; I am not a politician.

What is your wish to him at 78? I wish him good health and long life. I pray that he will continue to spend the rest of his life in joy and happiness. Also, I pray that God should continue to protect his family and the followers like us. As many times he celebrates more birthdays, we will always be there for him, because the more an adult sees or celebrates good things, the more he’s looking younger because of happiness.

Fel icitation We heartily Congratulate my Father, Mentor, Great Leader on this joyful occasion of his 78th birthday. May Almighty God continue to renew your strength and grant you wisdom to lead your people. Many happy returns of the day.

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Chief Mrs. Titilayo www.realitylifemagazine.com AJayi

Testimony

Beyond Politics, Chief Adegoke Taught Us Morals - Ayo AKINWANDE AYO , Councillor, Ondo East (1999-2002), two times Supervisor in the local government, leader in the Legislative Council and former Chairman of the Caretaker Committee, Ondo East Local Government Area gives an insight into Chief Segun Adegoke’s political life and other sundry matters…. What is your relationship with Chief Adegoke and how long have you known him? Chief Segun Adegoke is my political leader and I have known him for almost four decades now. I have been following him in all my political career and presently am still with him. How would you describe him? I will say today, I regard him as the Number 1 politician in Ondo State, not only in Ondo East or West but the entire Ondo State, and he is an Awoist. How many Awoists do you see here in Ondo politics that are still active as Chief Segun Adegoke? He has been made a member of Board of trustee of PDP and that is the peak of any political office one can attain. And nobody in Ondo has ever attained that high. Chief Segun Adegoke is a rugged politician, he has been in the game and I got to know him very well during 1979 in the time of UPN, NPN era. He was in politics with my father, late Hon. Taiwo Akinwande, when my father was a member of Ondo State House of Assembly and himself was a Commissioner then. He was the youngest Commissioner at 38years under late Chief Adekunle Ajasin. He was a man that was a Commissioner alongside his former principal in school, Chief Rueben Fashoranti. He was an adviser on political matters to the late Gov. Olusegun Agagu. What’s your memorable experience with him? So many memorable experiences. When there were so many rival groups, I was with Chief Adegoke. I could remember during Adefarati era, Chief Segun Adegoke contested and he wanted to be governor then but he was prevailed upon to step down for Chief Adebayo Adefarati. Although a lot of things happened then, he was asked to pres-

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ent 5 people from his camp, and Ex-Gov., Dr. Olusegun Mimiko to present 5 members from his own group too. I happened to be among the 5 from Chief Segun Adegoke group and we went for this negotiation politically so that we will be able to come together, work together as a party because we belonged to the same party. That day was very memorable for me and also the highest political office I ever held in my life was because of Chief Segun Adegoke. As of that time, my predecessor was accused of involvement in anti-party activities. So, he was removed and they asked for who to be at the helm of affairs then. And Chief Segun Adegoke, being the leader said it was no other person but my humble self. That was a very memorable day which I will never forget in my life because I have never attained such a position in my life. I pray to God I will attain higher ones. What morals should people learn from him? Chief Adegoke is a very intelligent man, not only political, he taught us morals. Those of us who drank from the fountain of his knowledge, would resume in his house every morning; at times we close together

at his office in the evening. Chief Adegoke has this thing we call native intelligence. He said those of us under him should count ourselves lucky because the opportunity we have now, he never had it. The lecture we receive from him on how to behave, how to give respect to elders, you don’t have to say because you are in politics, you put in intrigues. No, you don’t play politics of bitterness. We learnt a lot from him and he taught us that if you are into politics, don’t let it be politics all the way. You must build yourselves, and be fully employed. You must try to improve yourself not only politically, but if you have never acquired some certificates, he would recommend you go back to school. Even if it’s trade you want to learn, go and become an apprentice so you will always have a fallback position such that you don’t have to rely on politics for the rest of your life. To my own knowledge Chief Adegoke spent and devoted much more than he got from politics. What impact has he made generally? So many impacts: The Civic Centre here in Ondo Kingdom, Chief Segun Adegoke was instrumental to it. No positive thing that they will want to talk about in Ondo Kindgom that he would not have impact in it. The Ondo Development Committee (ODC), he was also part of the initiators. He has impacted in the life of many people, the community, the State and at the national level. What are your wishes for him @73? We wish him all the best, we pray we will still be there when he is marking 80. We pray to God that it will be happening in our life. We wish him many more years on earth, a glorious and healthy life. And I wish him to attain a minimum of 90 years.

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Testimony

Chief Adegoke Is An Exceptional Community Leader - Adeniyi

de Adeniyi, cousin to Chief Segun Adegoke has described his uncle as a very good lawyer, a good community leader, a versatile man, very knowledgeable and still remained very strong at his age. He noted that he has had very nice and cordial experiences with him, saying: “He is courageous, he is a very bold man. If

you want to be successful in life, you have to set your goal. He has set his and he is achieving it.” Adeniyi prayed that even as Chief Adegoke marks his birthday, “he will remain very healthy in his old age and he will be there for a very long time for people like us to tap from his wide experience and wisdom.”

He’s A Man Endowed with Super Intelligence

- Mrs Akinkuotu

hief Segun Adegoke has been described as a man of hope with high capacity intelligence, and a progressive worldview, who loves development, and has impacted greatly on the lives of the people of Ondo State. This description was made by Mrs Akinkuotu Beatrice Iyabo, a State ex-officio of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). “He is a man of hope, highly intelligent man that handles things in a very highly

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intelligent way. He knows what to do, when to do them, and how to do things at the right time and right way. “Baba is a purposeful man who loves development. He is an excellent and international man. With his contribution, he has impacted greatly in people in the state. While I was an infant, we learnt of the contributions he made in the life of Baba Ajasin and Baba Adefarati. “Coming to this recent time, Baba has done a lot in the life of Ex-Governor,

Dr.Olusegun Mimiko as an excellent man in this State. When other people were giving a different affiliation against him, Baba stood up for him. “Baba stood his feet for the progress of this community and for the progress of this country. So I describe him from the life of those people he as impacted on.” Mrs Akinkuotu wished Chief Adegoke more years on earth so as to be able to “promote those of us in politics.”

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Testimony

He Taught Me How Not To Touch Client’s Money - Adeniji Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Ondo Branch, Barr. David Olabode Adeniji has been practicing law in Ondo State since 1994 and therefore, is in a position to talk about Chief Segun Adegoke, his senior colleague in the legal profession. He spoke to us….. What’s your relationship with Baba, and how long have you known him? He is a father to me, a senior, and highly revered at the bar. I have known him since 1994 when I started my practice, I used to go to his office. I can say authoritatively that his office, as far as law books are concerned, is the most equipped in Ondo State. Even as presently he is no longer in active practice, he keeps on buying books everyday till today. During our early days at the bar, you know this young lawyer exuberance, Chief Segun Adegoke always gave us fatherly advice. Some of the lawyers have passed through his office and I am also one of them. How would you describe him? Chief Segun Adegoke is very frank, very blunt, very outspoken, and very courageous. He doesn’t waste time in calling a spade a spade. It’s unfortunate for us that Chief has left legal practice for politics, we are missing him, particularly the young lawyers. It’s been very long since Chief appeared in court, so many young lawyer have not been opportune to see Chief Segun Adegoke in action since he left. Most times, we lawyer just come to court to see him in action. He has contributed immensely to the development of democracy in this country. What are the morals people should learn from him? When I became the Chairman of the bar, I went to his office. He always ad-

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vised me to be careful with client’s money, that I should try as much as possible, that money will come. But when it comes to the case of big money, that I should try as much as possible not to tamper with client money. What are your wishes for him? Like I said, we are missing him at the

bar and Baba is still young. I wish him long life and prosperity and to reap the fruit of his labour. I wish he should not abandon us, I wish he should be coming to court occasionally to check up on what’s happening and be giving advice to young lawyers because we need elderly advice right now with things that are happening.

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Testimony

He Is An Embodiment Of Courage - Adegoroye PRINCE ADEMOLA ADEGOROYE, is both a legal practitioner and politician. He tells us in this interview what he knows about Chief Adegoke and why his contributions to both the legal and political developments of Ondo State cannot be forgotten easily…… How long have you known Chief, and what’s the closeness like? My being in politics for quite some time was why I could be close to Chief Adegoke. I have had personal relationship with Chief since the late 90s, when he was putting together the alliance for democracy in 1998. I was just one of the young men who had to be close to some of our leaders to show us the way. To you, who is Chief Adegoke? He is a man who is always truthful, extremely forthright. He is a very tenacious person, when he believes in a course, he stands by it. He is a very courageous man, courage in character, courage in words, courage in deed. He can face any situation, meet up with anyone, address any crowd, and say his mind. He does not care whose Ox is gored; he will tell you as it is. That’s what I admire about him so much. He is also someone who speaks impeccable English; he has very good command in English language. He knows what to say and how to say it. He knows when his voice should be up or down. He is a man that God blessed. He is extremely neat, very conscious of how he looks even at 78. What memorable experience with him can you remember? Each time I remember the memorable things we have done together, even when I am sleeping, I will start to laugh and laugh.

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What can we learn from him? To be honest, to be truthful, to be tenacious, to stand for what you believe. Chief Adegoke is relevant today even at 78 and still one of the leaders in PDP. He is not a multi-millionaire, people like him who are this relevant in any community, will be multi-billionaires. What are you wishing him? My wishes for him is that the Lord would bless him, the Lord will keep him for us, the Lord will shine his face upon

him. He will grow even older. I know he is very concerned about his health. He knows how to enjoy life, he knows what to eat and what not to. He will live old in good health, he shall not bury his children, and his children will also do well as much as he has done. As he grows older, I pray God will make him a better person. Also he has contributed a lot to the political development of this State.

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Testimony

He Is A Thoroughbred Lawyer- Alhaji Adewetan The Balogun Ewe Adinni of Ondo Kingdom and an Executive Director of EKI FM Radio Station, ALHAJI YEMI ADEWETAN says in the following interview that as the ‘King of Boys’ in Ondo Kingdom, Chief Segun Adegoke is an asset to the Kingdom…. How would you describe the person of Chief Segun Adegoke? He is a forthright gentleman, a born lawyer, who went into politics to be the doyen of this kingdom. You need to be close to him to understand him as a loving personality, who can be predicted at a close range for his bluntness and highly respected intelligence. He is an asset to this kingdom. As the saying goes: ‘a prophet is without honour in his kingdom.’ Can you recall any memorable experience you had with him? There is one thing I will never forget about Chief Segun Adegoke. During the court case of our late Osemawe of Ondo kingdom, Oba Festus Adesanoye, he handled the case at lower court in Ondo he won, before the appeal. The kingdom lost at the Court of Appeal, then the late Osemawe went to Supreme court and won. It was Chief Segun Adegoke’s defense at the High court that was acted upon at the Supreme court for the Oba to be able to win the case. That shows how highly intelligent he is and how blessed he is in the law profession; he is an orator. In one of the cases at the court, he stood up and talked for almost 4 hours

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while making his submission. He hardly can be faulted in any case if he decided to do it thoroughly. And he’s a thorough man, a born lawyer. For that particular deed, that is why I respect him. Why is it that they call him great leader? Like I said earlier on, he is the doyen of

politics, the present day politician passed through his school of thought. What do you wish him at 78? My wish for him is he will remain here on earth for as long as the Lord tarries. May his life be splendid till he leaves this world. I wish him a Happy Birthday!

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Testimony

Chief Adegoke Is A Political Mentor With A Difference - Akinsoyinu Immediate past member of the Ondo State House of Assembly, representing Constituency 2 of Ondo West Local Government, HON. DAYO AKINSOYINU in the following interview, discusses those qualities that stand Chief Segun Adegoke out as an exceptional political leader….. How long have you known Chief Segun Adegoke? I have known him since 1976 when I came back from London and I ventured into politics. How would you describe him? He is someone I can calls dogged fighter even at his age, a consistent person. He does whatever he does out of deep conviction, he is not given to frivolities. He doesn’t suffer fools gladly; he will tell you the way it is. He is a very upright person such that if you hate gospel truth, you are not likely to be his friend because he is always very blunt and he speaks with firing confidence and candle. If you can’t stomach the truth, you are not likely to be his friend. Chief Adegoke has trained many politicians and lawyers in Nigeria and Ondo State in particular. He has always been a rallying point politically and legally in Nigeria. We have always encouraged him to apply for SAN but I don’t know why he is reluctant about it. He has handled so many cases successfully, he is a first class brain and an outstanding scholar. Baba is solid upstairs and as a matter of fact, he grew up as a gifted child in his own generation even at his age now. Not so many of his contemporaries can compare themselves with what he has upstairs. He still outshines them even at his age now. He is still strong, he has sharp memory, remembering things that happened way back 50-60 years ago. He has a very good command of the English language; he still remains a gifted person. The philosophy of Chief Adegoke is ‘live and let’s live.’ He believes that a good leader must groom more leaders from

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my School Certificate; I finished my School Certificate Exam in 1978. I came very close to him in the last one year although, I have been close to him before then. But in the last one year that I have been very close to him, he has proved to me to be somebody who can mentor people. One memorable experience I have had with him so far is that Baba Adegoke believes so much that success without a successor is a failure. What moral lesson should people learn from him? Chief Adegoke has been able to impact on people positively and there is one moral lesson that he keeps on teaching people: that is the fear of God. And that is, whatever you do, you should always bear it in mind that God is somewhere there. There is none of his members he does not tell that. He was not a regular Church goer, but now, he goes to Church very well. Each time you get to him, he preaches to you and takes you up through the bible and moral lessons. One moral lesson one should learn from him is to always have the fear of God in whatever you do.

the rank and followership. He believes so much that more leaders must emerge from a good leader. What memorable experience with him can you recollect? Politically, we were not close in the past, because he started his politics in the era of UPN in 1979 when I just finished

What do you wish him as he celebrates his 78th birthday? I congratulate Chief Segun Adegoke today, I wish him many more years of fruitful service to his father land, in good health and prosperity. I pray that he sees many of his great grandchildren. My advice for him is that now that he is a BOT member, he is the father of us all and he should continue to mentor us.

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Testimony

He Has Been A Father To Us The Young Lawyers - Oluwole TOKUNBO OLUWOLE, a legal practitioner, and onetime Vice President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and for several years, was Chairman of Ondo Branch of the association. He also runs an NGO. He spoke to us about the man, Chief Segun Adegoke…… What is your relationship with Chief Adegoke, and how long have you known him? Chief Segun Adegoke is someone well known to me. First and foremost, he is a father to me and also, a very close friend of my late dad. I think they went to same primary school and they’ve been very close. When I came to law practice, I met him there. He is a very senior colleague; he was about 50 years ahead of us in the profession. How would you describe his person? He is a very pragmatic person, very outspoken, he doesn’t hide his feelings. He calls a spade a spade, he always stands by his word. What memorable experience can you recall having with him? Most times, I always like to be with him and he would always tell me one or two things. I can say one particular memorable time was when I was getting married and he was the chairman of the occasion. It was really a memorable time having my father and another father as the chairman of the occasion. There was a time I really doffed my hat for him; it was the time when the NBA Ondo branch was having a crisis with him, Nobody could have convinced him to change his mind. He was so blunt, but immediately I talked to him, he changed his mind and was saying if not for me that talked to him, he wouldn’t have changed his mind. What impact do you think he has made especially in the legal profession and politics? In terms of the legal profession, he has been a front runner for so many years. He brought in standard in such a way that when you get to his chamber, you will know it’s a chamber. He is not a nobody in the legal profession, I believe he should have been a

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SAN if he had wanted but I think he was not just interested. And in the community, he is very notable; in politics, He is practically everywhere. And we keep celebrating him today because God has promoted him. People like us still have somebody to reckon with in every aspect of life. What Moral have you learnt from him and what should people learn from him? What I learnt from him is that, is a man

of principle that stand his ground for truth and what he believes in. What do you wish him as he marks his 78th birthday? I wish him well, am happy that the Almighty God has granted him the grace to live this long. I am happy that he is living a fulfilled life. He is contented with what he has,We thank God for still keeping him as a father figure and he is also a symbol of experience

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Testimony

He Is A Goal-Getter, Determined To Get Result From Whatever He Embarks Upon - Akinkugbe CHIEF TAIWO AKINKUGBE is a childhood friend of Chief Segun Adegoke. He spoke to us about their early days as children, their years in school in the UK and the qualities that stand him out as a leader…. What is your relationship with him and how long have you known him? He has been my childhood friend for about 75 years and incidentally, his grandfather has been my daddy`s best friend and since then we have been coming together. Around the same time, we went to Britain to study. How would you describe his personality? He is a goal getter yet; he is very nice. I could remember when he was a commissioner, he was very young when he was made the commissioner. And whenever we got there, even if he was having a meeting, he always came out to receive me by himself and he has been very nice to me. He always picked my calls, and we have mutual respect for each other. What memorable experience with him can you recall? When we were in England, we used to have parties all the time, but when he came back, (although I came back before most of my friends) we formed AMITY Club about 40 years ago. We have been coming together unfortunately, some of us are late but we still have a good number of us still alive. AMITY, as the name implies, connotes friendship. We are a group of friends who thought of coming together, having meeting for the betterment of Ondo Kingdom. Why do people call him great leader, do you also know him as a great leader? Yes, he is a great leader and he has the charisma. Recently, he was appointed one of the members of the Board of Trustees

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in PDP, and I was very happy for him; I called him. He has paid his dues because in politics you can’t brush him aside. He doesn’t suffer fools gladly. What morals should people learn from him? He is a goal getter, whatever he wants to do, he will focus and do it. This is something youths should emulate from him. Whenever he is celebrating his birthday, you see a lot of younger generation of people gathering around him; he attracts them like magnet. And he is down to earth, he is blunt. There was a particular incident, we had a small party with all our friends and we had a little misunderstanding. And

at that time, I was living in Ibadan and I was going back to Ondo for the weekend. Chief Segun Adegoke was coming back to Ibadan and I was reading paper at the back of the car. And my driver said Sir, Uncle Segun is waving at you. I was surprised because we just had a quarrel a day before. When he came back, I went to him and apologized. If it were other people, they will just keep grudges, but he doesn’t keep grudges in mind. What are your wishes for him? I wish him long life and prosperity, and as we are growing old, we continue to pray for God’s mercy on our life and good health.

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Testimony

His Straight-Forwardness Is Legendary- Ojikutu HON. AKINYOMI RUFUS OJIKUTU is the PDP Chairman, Ondo West Local Government. He speaks in this interview about the man, Chief Segun Adegoke and his place in the politics of Ondo State…. What is your relationship with Chief Segun Adegoke, and how long have you known him? Chief has been my mentor since 1997 that I have been with him and playing politics with him. How would you describe his person? Chief Adegoke is a straight-forward man, he is a person that doesn’t keep malice; if you offend him, he will immediately let you know. Even in the government, when there is an appointment, he spreads it to everybody. He is not biased or sentimental in this; he doesn’t shortchange anybody. He makes sure everyone has sense of belonging. What is your most memorable experience with him? I have been with him for years but one day, one of my boys confronted me and was asking: why is it that every morning

goke for that. Baba is a nice man and if you are loyal to him, he won’t forget you when it comes to things you deserve. Why do people call him great leader? He is the most relevant leader across Ondo State. All the leaders in Ondo West/ East passed through him, they learnt the politics from him.

you are going to Chief Adegoke`s house? So, later I was appointed as a supervisor in the Ondo West Local Government. The next morning, that boy came and prostrated to me and said he didn’t know this is how politics is, that he thought I was just wasting my time going to see Chief Segun Adegoke that he couldn’t believe I would be a supervisor. All thanks to Chief Ade-

What moral lessons have you learnt from him which you would want people to learn too? I have learned a lot, politics is sensitive. I learnt you can use politics anywhere, both in your home and community. Also as a politician, you have to have your own personal job, don’t rely on politics alone. What’s your wishes for him? I wish Baba a happy birthday, more years in good health.

He Is A Very Frank Man Who Does Not Hide His Feelings - Femi AKINJOPO FESTUS FEMI is the Publicity Secretary and Director of Media, Ondo West Local Government chapter of the PDP. He talks to us about the man, Chief Segun Adegoke…. How much of Chief Segun Adegoke do you know, and for how long? I have known him since 2002, in the time of AD. He did a lot for me: I got a lot of experience from him, I got married and did my wedding. How would you describe him? He is a very frank man, if you offend him, he tells you he doesn’t keep it to heart. There is no position that you want and you are worthy of it and you need his endorsement or letter to Abuja, he will do

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it for you instantly. What is your experience with him like? When I just finished my HND, I had no job, so Baba recommended a job to me. He wrote a letter for me to Ondo West Local Government as consultant and I got that job. When I saw the woman I wanted to marry, she was a teacher opposite Baba’s house. So after meeting with her and telling her my intentions, Baba also spoke to her on my behalf, telling her I am a responsible and good person. As am talking to you now, I got married to her and we are blessed with children. Even Baba was the ‘Father of the Day’ on our wedding. Baba says politics without job and education is a waste. He has talked a lot of people into going to school,

learning works and having a source of livelihood. What do you wish him as he marks his 78th birthday? I wish him long life and prosperity in good and sound health.

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Testimony

He Instilled In Us, A Great Deal Of Morals - Akinbolaji HON. RASHEED AKINBOLAJI , General Secretary of PDP in Ondo West and the Chairman of the Chief Adegoke 78th Birthday Planning Committee. He shares his knowledge of the celebrant with us in the following short interview……

doesn’t lose words. He is a man that will lead you, advise you, mentor you, and make sure you are doing alright. He will always want to see you doing good. Even when you are wrong, he won’t pamper you but will tell you sharply and also give you courage to always do what’s right.

Can you tell us something about Chief Segun Adegoke? I have known Baba since I grew up at least in the past 25 years and I have been actively close to him politically for at least 10 years now.

What morals should we learn from him? If any man lives the way Chiefs lives, such a person will barely have problems in life. He instilled in us a great deal of morals, that everyone of us wants to be proud of.

How would you describe him? He is a great leader; he is a leader of leaders. He is a man who has seen it all politically in life and in his chosen career. I want to give it to him that for God to have sustained his life up to this day, I

What do you wish him at 78? I pray God will elongate his life in long health, and in sound health so that he can continue to do well for Ondo State and Nigeria.

will say it’s a blessing to some of us that are able to grow through him and associate with him. He is a man who is true to time, who

He Is The Leader Of Leaders - Felix MAKINWA FEMI FELIX is the General Chairman of all Wards Chairmen in Ondo West. He shares his views about Chief Segun Adegoke with our team…. How long have you known Chief Adegoke? I am like a son to Baba, because he has been playing a fatherly role for us for over 6 years now. How would you describe Baba? I will say he is a leader of leaders because he has made a lot of leaders even in this kingdom, at the state level and nationwide. Most of the politicians in this state pass through him. What memorable experience do you have with him? It was when he made me the Chairman of all Chairmen; that’s my most memorable experience.

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What lesson did you learn from him? Baba is a very straight-forward person. When he says yes, it’s yes, and when he says no, he means no. When it comes to issue of assigning posts, Baba is always doing things right. If you are not qualified for a post, he will tell you in your face, you are not qualified and will tell you who is qualified. What do you wish him as he celebrates his 78th birthday? I wish him a lot of goodies, long life, more wealth and in sound health. I pray we celebrate more years with him. On behalf of the other ward chairmen, I wish Baba happy birthday, long life and prosperity.

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He Is An Easy-Going Man - Ondo Prince PRINCE DR. ADEWALE ADETOSOYE, a Prince of Ondo Kingdom recounts what he knows about Chief Segun Adegoke….. Our Relationship “He is my friend, and it’s unfortunate that we didn’t go to the same secondary school together. Both of us are based in Ondo. We have come to know ourselves closely after I had worked in the bank for about 11 years. And we have known ourselves for over 30 years now.”

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The Man, Chief Segun Adegoke “Back then when we were still growing up during secondary school days, although we didn’t go to the same secondary school, we were friends in town. He was cool-headed, a very bright student and he loved sports. He was easy going

then and till now. He is a core Christian; we attend the same Church. Even at the Church, we use his knowledge greatly as a legal officer.” Your Wish for Him “I wish him many, many happy returns of the year and prosperous years ahead.”

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Testimony

He Believes In The Growth Of The Young Politicians - PDP Ex-Publicity Secretary

BANJI OKUNOMO, a former Local Government Chairman, former publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ondo State a technocrat and a politician shares some insight about Chief Adegoke with usâ&#x20AC;Ś. How long have you known Chief Segun Adegoke? I have known him even before I met him; he is a household name in Ondo State politics. I have known him to be a seasoned leader of repute and high degree of intellectual capacity. A leader that speaks fearlessly, a leader that speaks the truth, a leader that believes in the capacity of the younger generation. He combines his handsomeness with intelligence. He is an embodiment of quality, a great politician of note in Ondo State. Baba is somebody that nobody can intimidate because he speaks his mind the way he considers it to be on any issue. He always based his analysis on truth. Baba will not be seen with anything that is not in agreement with truth. He is a down to earth person who believes that the truth will set you free. When I was doing my gubernatorial consultation, the display of fatherliness, hospitality and the atmosphere of interaction; and the way he did not also undermine me as a younger person and on the ground upon which my aspiration was predicated, he saw reason with me. I also remember that I invited him to one of the meetings of elders and he attended that meeting. Unlike my experience with a contemporary of mine who turned down my invitation, that is a demonstration of humility and a true acceptance of the younger people. He believes that the younger people should grow. Do not also forget that his political relevance commenced when he was in his

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youthful age. He started as a member of the Action Group. He is Awoist, he believes in all the philosophies of Awolowo. He does not only believe in it, he also practically lives it because when a man acts by what he says, he is a true man. Unlike some, he is a true replica of what he preaches and what he professes. What are the morals that people should learn from him? I want to use this medium to admonish members of the younger generation to

which I belong to use Chief Adegoke as a symbol of emulation because what is good must be emulated. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your wish for him as he clocks 78? I wish him long life and prosperity. I want him to live longer than his own estimation so that he will see the good things that the Lord has done through him. I wish him many happy return and pray that the good Lord will continue to preserve him for us because we still love him and want him to continue the way he is.

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Testimony

He Is Unique In Both Character And Human Relationship - Adekunle PDP Youth Leader in Ondo West Local Government, OYEWOLE ADEKUNLE in the following interview eulogizes Chief Segun Adegoke, describing him as a great leader…. What is your relationship with Chief Adegoke and how long have you known him? Firstly, Baba Adegoke is a great leader and he has been a father of all politicians in Ondo State as far back as the Second Republic. I have been a party member with him for more than 3 years now. How would you describe his person? Baba is a distinct and unique man in terms of character and human relationship. He is a mentor, a philosopher, a teacher and a philanthropist. He is a man who believes that you are not in a position just yourself but you are to use that position to help other people. In Ondo kingdom alone, I can cite series of examples of politicians that he has developed or that has gone through his leadership. He is someone who calls a spade, a spade; if you are doing

What’s your most memorable experience with him? It was the day Baba appointed me for the position of youth leader of Ondo kingdom, because I have been in politics for long, I have never gotten such position.

anything wrong, he will tell you to your face.

What morals have you learnt from him? He has taught not just me but everyone to be open-minded. As a leader, he creates room for everybody to express themselves in cases before taking a decision, he never imposes his own decisions on anyone. He makes room for deliberations.

Do you think he has impacted enough in the people of Ondo kingdom? He has done a whole lot, even as a lawyer, he has done greatly well for the people of Ondo kingdom.

What are your wishes for him? I wish baba long life and prosperity, I still wish for God to give him the strength and wisdom to live 150 years on earth

Baba Is An Institution- Olakunle Olakunle B. Martins, A.k.a. Adoration, and an Executive in Ondo West “If am to discuss about him, am also going to discuss about his political career, his profession and his way of life. He is an author, and in Ondo state he is the key political figure. No one can but recognize that every politician in Ondo West and East has gone through him. He has mentored them for them to reach their political careers. “When you come to his profession, law, Baba is another figure to be recognized. He is a friendly person; he is not just an individual but an institution. He is a man of honour and integrity, a dynamic leader. Everything about Baba is always positive, he is a man of his word and

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those that cannot comply with him, that cannot wait or move along with him are those ones that can never touch the part of righteousness or the truth. This is because Baba is very blunt, always telling you the truth, no matter your status. “And to the glory of God, if you see Baba, you will think he is 40 or 45, he doesn’t look 78. That’s what God has done in his life. And in the last 5 years, Baba has moved closer to God. On daily basis, he counsels people, he organizes prayers and also gives out words of wisdom. He talks to the youth to always stay away from anti-social activities.”

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Congratulations A man of Justice, a man of honor, our father, the great Political leader of our fat kingdom. We congratulate you on this kin occasion of your 78th birthday, may occ Almighty God grant many more years Alm in g good health.

Congratulations Sir Con

PR PRINCE ADEGOROYE AD

There Is Nothing Within His Capacity He Cannot Do For You- Omotayo

emi Omotayo, a Senior Assistant (SA) to Chief Adegoke has said that his boss is a very nice man, even more than the way he’s described by people. “He is a very good man and there is nothing within his capacity that he will not do for you. He wishes success for everyone and he is a problem solver. He hates lies

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and he expects the best from you in whatever task he give you,” he said. Omotayo, who has been with the septuagenarian for about two decades said he still remembers how his boss, Chief Adegoke once called him to come and eat with him, describing it as memorable. As Chief Adegoke marks his 78th

birthday, Omotayo is wishing him many more years ahead in good health, as “Baba is still a young man.” He said he has learnt a lot from his boss whom he noted “advised me to give my children good education, give them the best of education, and make sure they graduate on time,” an advice he said he has applying.

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FELICIT ATION I and Family Heartily Felicitate with A Good Friend, An Eloquently Quintessential, Confidant, A Man of Justice. Chief Segun Adegoke on the occasion of his 78years Birthday, may you continue to flourish in good health, Long-life and Prosperity.

Happy Birthday, Prince Dr. Adewale

Adetosoye

Testimony

He Is A Man Of Integrity, An Epitome Of Knowledge And Culture - Adams Hon Fatai Adams, the Ondo State Deputy Chairman of the PDP reveals to us in this interview that Chief Adegoke is a man who thrives in honesty….

What is your relationship with him and how long have you known him? Chief Segun Adegoke is an Astute politician with great reputation, a man of integrity, an epitome of knowledge and culture. He is very disciplined and thorough person, very friendly and is a person that loves everybody and virtually been loved by everyone that comes in contact with him. Baba will never deceive you. He will tell you the truth, he will say it the way it is, not the way that you would want to hear it. I have known Baba for a very long time even before I started playing politics with him. I have known him since the day he was a Commissioner

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in the state under Pa Ajasin. What’s your most memorable time with him? It was the day I was with him with one of our aspirants, Chief Segun Adegoke talked to him as a baby. Eventually, we realized what Baba wanted to bring out from the message. We later appreciated Baba because that advice brought success to our party. What moral lesson can one learn from him? Chief Segun Adegoke will never tell you lie. If you are before him and you are a thief, he will tell it to your face. If you

are not doing what is moral, he will let you know it’s not moral. If you engage in gossip, he will tell you to stop and let you know that it is better for you to say the truth at all times, no matter how bitter. What are your wishes for him @78? I want to use this opportunity to congratulate Chief Segun Adegoke on his birthday. And I want to say that this should be the beginning of a year filled with happy memories, wonderful moment and shinning dreams. I pray that he will celebrate many happier days and years ahead.

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Testimony

Baba Is One Of The Greatest People In Politics - Akinsiku HON. BARRISTER AFOLABI AKINSIKU, is a multi-discipline professional and a two-time legislator in Ondo State. He is currently a Commissioner 1 on a 5-year term in the Ondo State House of Assembly Commission. In the following interview, he talks about the political philosophy of Chief Adegoke and the moral lessons people could draw from this political leader…… What is your relationship with Chief Adegoke, and how long have you known him? He is a father figure although we belong to different political parties. I joined politics about 13 years ago, we’ve been in different political parties so, I couldn’t probably know his worth. In 2011, when he decided that his own followers in PDP should work for the re- election of Gov. Mimiko in 2011, we all worked together even as he remained in his PDP. The idea was to give Gov. Mimiko support to get a second slot because of what he saw in terms of performance. Even in 2014, Dr. Mimiko with his Labour Party, moved to PDP then; we became members of the same political party. And it was within this period that I know the quality of which Baba was made of. And am saying this as a fact, and I won’t shy away from the fact of saying this, that how I wish I have known Baba politically for decades before now. This is because there is no way you will sit with him that you will not take something back home. How would you describe him? He is an accomplished lawyer, a man of wisdom, a legal practitioner of repute and competence; I duff my hat for him. Unfortunately, we are now in different parties but still, honour will be given to whom honour his due. Baba is a man of wisdom, a political teacher, there is no way you will go through his tutelage that you will not excel. He knows everything about the game and he is very brilliant with a very high IQ. When he speaks, everybody would want to listen to him

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because he is an orator, a gifted speaker. What’s your memorable experience with him? It was when the Labour Party and PDP joined hands together, and it’s like a marriage of strange bed fellows then. With his wisdom and experience, he was able to manage both parties that it was a win-win situation. There was no clash and both interests were merged together. I can never forget that, it was so superb. What moral lesson do you think people should learn from him?

People should learn to recognize integrity; your yes should be your yes and your no should be your no. They said politics is a dirty game but there are some fine people in politics that are there to clean the muddy waters, and Baba is one of them. He is a highly tolerable person and he can sacrifice a lot to make a situation peaceful. What are your wishes for him? I wish him a happy birthday, long life, and prosperity in good health. May the good Lord bless his new age.

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Testimony

He Is A Fearless Man, Ready To Tell The Truth Without Fear Or Favour -Adekeye CHIEF MRS. FEBISOLA ADEKEYE, an indigene of Ondo kingdom, and a contemporary of Chief Segun Adegoke recalls their childhood and school years and those qualities that stand the Septuagenarian out…. How long have you known Chief Adegoke and what is your relationship with him? I’ve known him more than 60 years now. We grew up in the same Ondo Kingdom; I was in Saint Louis, he was in Ondo Boys’ High School. We have been friends since then with other of my friends. How can you describe Him? I’ve known him as a fearless person, who will tell the truth no matter whose Ox is gored, he doesn’t care; he calls a spade, a spade. I think he only fears God and He is a nice man. What would you count as your most memorable experience with him? We have our tough days in politics, besides that, he used to be the ladies’ man when we were young. He was always a handsome young man and fashionable at all times. We were playmates and love dancing. How would you describe him as a political leader? He’s the Number 1 force to be reckoned with in politics as far as Ondo Kingdom and Ondo State are concerned. I don’t think his own politics is not that of bread and butter because if it were so, you would have had a chain of houses, jeeps as you see some of them now owned by some inconsequential persons that have suddenly become sudden millionaires; he is not one of them. His own politics is that of service, accountability

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and hard work. You know he used to be a disciple of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, he has upheld the tenets of the late sage. What are the morals that people should emulate from him? People should not just enter politics because of money, people should go into politics with certain conviction. Like

him, he wants this Ondo kingdom to be better. What’s your wish for him? I wish him all the good things of life, long life in good health and happy birthday.

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Testimony

He Is A Straight-Forward Person - Ayodeji

igh Chief Sola Ayodeji, the Adaja of Ondo Kingdom has described Chief Segun Adegoke as a very strict person, who calls a spade by its name. High Chief Ayodeji, who said he has known Chief Adegoke for a very long time right from when he was young, noted that as cousins, they relate very well. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I recall one memorable moment with him. When he was young, we lived at the same street; he was tough but he is so loving a person. I later saw him grow up in politics and we were always happy for him,â&#x20AC;? Ayodeji said. He said that the morals that should be learnt from Chief Segun Adegoke is that the young ones in particular, should always carry people along, be straight-forward in a way that people will rally round them. High Chief Ayodeji therefore, wished Chief Adegoke a happy birthday, and many happy returns.

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Testimony

He Is Very Truthful, A Dogged Fighter And A Very Blunt Person - Alabi EBENEZER OMOTAYO ALABI, former Chairman of PDP in Ondo State, and a former Chairman of Akure North Local government is a very senior member of the PDP in Ondo State. He spoke to us about Chief Segun Adegoke and the lessons the young generation can learn from him……. Can we know your relationship with Chief Adegoke and how long you have known him? I have been hearing of him for a very long time especially when I was still a toddler. He is a great politician. I knew him when he served under the late Chief Ajasin; he was a commissioner then. I was in school then, and that was a time his administration introduced free education of which I was a beneficiary. We were the first set of students that enjoyed free education then, in 1980. After then, when I became an active politician, I have been relating with Chief Adegoke. When I was made chairman of the local government, I knew him; he was the special adviser to late Olusegun Agagu. When I became chairman of the party in the state, he was a strong leader and supported my administration, so I know him very well. How would you describe him? He is a very truthful man, a dogged fighter, and a very blunt person. He does not pretend where he is supposed to say the truth. He always says his mind no matter your status or position. He is not afraid of anybody and he is a great mobilize. In fact, he is a person that wants the youth to grow.

What is your most memorable experience with him? It’s the way he handles his subjects.

They should learn about his doggedness, and his truthfulness. They should learn how to be bold and not to be cowed at all, no matter how the opposition is. They should learn to promote their followers the way he does.

What moral lesson do you think people should learn from him?

What are your wishes for him as he clocks 78 ?

REALITY LIFE

wish him a happy birthday. I wish he still stays very long because we still need to tap from his words of experience to build the party

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Testimony

He Is A Great Leader - Mrs Akinsola

former Supervisor for Education and currently, the PDP treasurer for Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State, Hon. Mrs. Omolade Akinsola has described Chief Segun Adegoke as a great leader, father, mentor, and political giant who derives joy at ensuring that young politicians around him grow. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He is a visionary and has supported great leaders. It was through this great leader that I was privileged to attain the position of Supervisory Councilor in Ondo West Local Government and presently the PDP Treasurer of same local government,â&#x20AC;? she said. She prayed the good Lord to continue to bless Chief Adegoke with knowledge, wisdom and understanding in good health and prosperity in life.

Felicitation Our Great Leader, Mentor, Political Icon, we heartily felicitate with you on this occasion of your birthday. May God grant you good health and sound mind. Happy celebration Sir. ABOSEDE