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A tribute for Baba Adini: Olu Disu

Alhaji Olutokunbo Raimi Disu-Sule, simply called Olu Disu by his long-term friends, passed yesterday, 26 January 2024, at the UCH Ibadan after a brief illness and a successful surgery. He was indeed a diligent and professional technocrat. He was a loyal and loving friend of over 50 years. He was a nice gentleman.

I can remember about 23 or 24 years ago, I walked straight to meet the current President, and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, while he was the Governor of Lagos State. It was to discuss the promotion of my friend, Olu Disu, an Owo man from Ondo State to the post of Permanent Secretary in Lagos State Government. After pouring out all the qualities of Olu Disu and lobbying the Governor, he looked into my eyes and asked: How long have you known him? Easy question.
I answered. He also asked other pointed questions as if something had gone wrong. The Governor then calmly told me: “Look, I don’t know him. I don’t think I have ever met him. I have made a decision on him, and with what you have said, it is the correct decision. I have already promoted him to the level of a Permanent Secretary and will soon announce it.” He called for a file and showed me Disu’s name on the list he had just approved. Wonderful Governor. Wonderful Disu.

The Governor then spoke eloquently about the records of Olu Disu as an epitome of candour, hard work, honesty, and dedication to duties. I felt very proud of my friend. The Governor thanked me for making him know that he had taken a dispassionate and good decision on behalf of Lagos State.

That’s Olu Disu for you.

May the good Lord grant him eternal rest and comfort his families, friends, and associates.

Dr Olu Agunloye. 27/01/24

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