Otunba Segun Showunmi, the Odofin of Kemta Ilado, has felicitated with Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola Yayi, on the occasion of his 57th birthday anniversary.
Senator Adeola represents Ogun West Senatorial District in the National Assembly and is the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ogun State.
In a heartfelt congratulatory message, Otunba Showunmi described the lawmaker as a man of integrity, discipline, and deep commitment to grassroots politics.
Reflecting on their relationship, Otunba Showunmi recalled meeting Senator Adeola about a decade ago.
“It has been about a decade since I first encountered you. Hon. Tunji Egbetokun, Hon. Tunji Akinosi, and I had met in Ogbomosho and, upon our return, we met with you at the Radisson in Ikeja. Looking back over the years, one quality stands above all others in my assessment of your character: you are a man who keeps his word,” he said.
He noted that in an era where public trust is often tested, the ability to give one’s word and honor it remains one of the highest virtues of leadership.
“It is a quality that builds confidence, inspires loyalty, and strengthens institutions. It is also a quality I have consistently observed in you,” Showunmi added.
The Kemta chief commended Senator Adeola for his accessibility, empowerment programmes, and responsiveness to the people of Ogun West.
“I have watched your growth, your discipline, your political dexterity, and your commitment to the people you serve. It is my considered opinion that you are a valuable asset to your party, the APC, and an important pillar of support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the broader objectives of his administration,” he stated.
Otunba Showunmi said leadership goes beyond policy making to carrying people along through difficult reforms, an area where he believes Senator Adeola has distinguished himself.
“As someone who believes in verification rather than assumption, I made it a point to visit your senatorial district and assess the impact of your representation firsthand. What I encountered was impressive. I saw evidence of thoughtful planning, strategic intervention, and a sincere commitment to development,” he said.
“Ogun West is fortunate to have your representation at this moment in its history.”
He also praised the Senator’s ability to build bridges across communities and political divides. “Anyone who has spent time in public life understands that managing people is often the most difficult aspect of leadership. Yet you have built bridges across communities, maintained relationships across political divides, and earned goodwill from a remarkably broad spectrum of society.”
Otunba Showunmi congratulated Senator Adeola’s wife, children, and family for their support, and prayed for God’s continued guidance.
“I congratulate your wife, your children, and your entire family for the support system they provide, and I pray that Almighty God continues to strengthen you with wisdom, health, courage, and the grace to do even greater things in service to our people,” he said.
On behalf of the people of Kemta Ilado, he concluded:
“Kemta Iganran, Omo Ewa ti kì í jẹ́ owó ìlú afi owó ọkọ. Kemta á gbé wa.
Happy Birthday, Distinguished Senator.
May your best years of service still lie ahead.”