ODDA chairman AVM Adigun (rtd) pays tribute to Alao-Akala on 4th memorial

ODDA chairman AVM Adigun (rtd) pays tribute to Alao-Akala on 4th memorial

AVM Adigun rtd

Femi OGUNLANA

The passage of late governor of Oyo state, His Excellency Chief Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala has continued to rankle; this of course is unconnected with his larger-than-life image arising from his accomplishments and other remarkable virtues. January 12 marked his fourth remembrance anniversary and the occasion was celebrated by many who eulogized him for the kind of life he lived which made him a darling of the people.

Here in this article, the chairman of the Ogbomoso Descendants Development Association (ODDA), Air Vice Marshall Jacob Bolaji Adigun (rtd) and who is the Akogun of Ogbomosoland, issued an eulogium signed by Mr. Olusegun Kuti Aremu, Public Relations Officer of the ODDA.

The late elder statesman was described as a proud son of Ogbomoso whose memory has refused to fade and whose trajectory is marked by “uncommon courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in the dignity and potential of the common man.”

Alao-Akala was also portrayed as a man who saw leadership as a responsibility and never as a privilege, and whose people-oriented government policies were second to none, asserting these attributes made him a man of the people.

The ODDA chairman noted the life of the multiple chieftaincy titles holder has remained a testimony and an inspiration to many, stressing he left indelible impact just as he was praised as a man who became a pride of his people.

The Akogun concluded by saying “As we remember him today, we pray that his legacy of courage, service, and commitment to the people will endure. May his family find continued strength, and may his soul rest in perfect peace.”

The text in full:

Four years after his transition, the memory of Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala, former Governor of Oyo State and proud son of Ogbomosoland, remains vivid and deeply etched in the hearts of the people. His life was one of uncommon courage, resilience, and unwavering belief in the dignity and potential of the common man.

Born in Ogbomoso, Chief Alao-Akala rose from a humble beginning to the pinnacle of political leadership through determination, hard work, and an unshakeable connection with the grassroots. He was a leader who understood power not as privilege, but as responsibility — responsibility to uplift, to empower, and to give voice to those often unheard.

As Governor of Oyo state, his administration pursued policies and programmes that reflected his people-centred philosophy. He believed strongly in accessibility, inclusiveness, and practical governance. His style of leadership resonated with ordinary citizens because he remained approachable and relatable, never detached from the realities of the people he served.

Beyond politics, Otunba Alao-Akala was a symbol of Ogbomoso pride. He carried his roots with honour and consistently projected Ogbomosoland on the state and national stage. His journey continues to inspire young people, reminding them that origin does not limit destiny and that perseverance can overcome adversity.

Four years on, history continues to place him where he belongs — among leaders whose impact outlives their tenure. While opinions may differ, one truth remains undeniable: Otunba Christopher Adebayo Alao-Akala left an indelible mark on Oyo state and Nigerian politics.

As we remember him during this period, we pray that his legacy of courage, service, and commitment to the people will endure. May his family find continued strength, and may his soul rest in perfect peace.