By Eric Elezuo
Becoming a centenarian in these times is an achievement in itself, and for all intent and purpose, worth celebrating. As a result, Chief Elizabeth Omolara Akintonde, in conjunction with the Midoil Refining and Petrochemicals Limited, which she heads as the Executive Chairman, and the Midoil Communities Relationship Forum, spared no expense, pulled all the stops to celebrate the Baale of Sekungba Community, Chief Solomon Omotayo, as he hit the landmark age of 100.
Basking in the euphoria of a centenarian, an excited Baba as his subjects revered him, stormed the Midoil Refinery project ground, venue of the celebration, clad in sew-to-fit agbada Aso Oke attire, a symbol of his Yorubaness, dancing to beats of years past to acknowledge his period. He was accompanied by children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and neighbours who led him into the arena, to the warm embrace of a very cheering crowd, who could not wait to tap the grace of his long fruitful years through a handshake. Baba did not disappoint, and he went round the arena, greeting guests and exchanging pleasantries while releasing prayers to as many that cares to say amen.
The event kickstarted fully as Baba comfortably took his seat amid loud encomiums just as the duo of prolific stage master, Ben Ogheiwi and radio personality, Adebayo Obatungashe, supervised proceedings as anchors.
The opening prayer was taken by the Baale of Ererufu, Elder Gabriel Lawal, and followed by the recitation of the three stanzas of the National Anthem. Friends and associates took turns thereafter to present goodwill messages.
In her speech, the Executive Chairman of Midoil Refining and Petrochemicals Limited, Chief (Mrs) Akintonde, eulogised the baale, noting how benevolent and honest he has been in the relationship between Midoil and the Sekungba Community and the adjoining communities. She praised Baba for his uprightness, truthfulness and respect for humanity, adding that anyone would wish to be like him.
“For all you have done, and continue to do, we wish you a happy birthday, and pray that the Almighty will continue to sustain you in health and wealth all the days of your life,” Mrs Akintonde enthused.
Community after Community, leaders and representatives narrated how a man of integrity the centenarian is, praising God for blessing the community with a man of Baale Solomon’s calibre. They further heaped encomiums on the Midoil Executive Chairman for choosing their communities to invest and develop, noting the number of developmental projects including healthcare and educational facilities that have been added to them since the coming of Midoil to the environment.
In his message thereafter, the Olisa and Regent of Ketu, High Chief Adekunle Badru, lauded the foresight behind the Midoil Communities Forum, saying that it is yielding the desired developmental results.
With a photo-op ongoing amid sumptuous reception, the stage was set for dance of the celebrant, who was joined by friends and well wishers.
The event was rounded off with a vote of thanks by one of the sons of the centenarian, and the dances continued.
