It was moments of joy as family, friends and the church converged on Ijebu-Jesa to celebrate the Baba Ijo of the Cathedral Church of St Matthews, Ijebu-Jesa, Chief Samuel Olasupo Onajide as he clocks 90.
The programme started with a thanksgiving service at the Cathedral Church with songs of thanksgiving and prayers for the celebrant.
In his sermon titled ‘It Can Only Be God’, the Diocesan of Ijesa North Anglican Diocese, Bishop Iwabiolorun Oluyamo paid glowing tributes to the nonagenarian who he claimed was the first person to pray for him on his appointment as a Bishop.
While admonishing the celebrant to continue in his services to God and humanity, Bishop Oluyamo noted that attaining this age in spite of many challenges of life can only be by God. He described it as an uncommon grace.
Speaking during the church service, the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Mr Gboyega Alabi described Chief Onajide as a worthy role model who gives his life for prayers, philanthropism and love for others.
In his remarks, the Elegboro of Ijebu-Jesa, HRM Oba (Engr.) Moses Oluwafemi Agunsoye who is a cousin of the celebrant noted that Baba Onajide means so many positive things to many people. He noted that Baba taught him many lessons of lives growing up. He added that God has been gracious to the elderstatesman whom he described as rich in wisdom and endowed with the Spirit of God.
The reception and entertainment of guests was held at the Timsed Civic and Event Centre as the créme of the society from across the country and beyond gathered to felicitate with the celebrant. Ace gospel singer, Chief Yinka Ayefele (MON) was on band stand to entertain the guests.
It was a gathering of royalty, class and glamour. About twenty traditional rulers and a representative of the Ooni of Ife were in attendance. Former Deputy Governor of Osun State, Senator Iyiola Omisore, Chief of Staff to the Governor of Oyo State, Chief Ilaka, Member representing Kosofe Federal Constituency, Hon. Rotimi Agunsoye and a host of other eminent personalities graced the occasion and all heaped encomiums on Chief Onajide at 90.
In his vote of thanks, the Managing Director, R.T Briscoe Nigeria Ltd, Mr Seyi Onajide appreciated everyone who took out time to rejoice with his father. He returned all glory to God for making the day a reality noting that the celebrant was indisposed in the last six weeks raising concerns of how he was going to witness his 90th birthday.
He spoke glowingly of the many qualities of his father who he described as a father to many. He described him as a man of prayer, selfless and straightforward personality.