Nigerians across different strata uplifted the remarkable life of actor, poet, broadcaster, playwright, Alagba Adebayo Faleti calling on state and federal government to immortalise the late Faleti.
From one tribute to another at the service of songs organised by the National Orientation Agency (NOA), on Wednesday, in Ibadan, special mention was made of Faleti’s humility, creativity, commitment to preservation of culture, promotion of Yoruba and selfless service to humanity.
In delivering his tribute, former Minister of Education, Professor Tunde Adeniran described Faleti as an unusual word smith, distinct creator of artistic material and one who showcased great elocution in his deliveries.
Especially, Adeniran averred that Faleti was key in ensuring that Yoruba does not go into extinction, praying that Faleti be immortalised.
He consequently called for introspection by living beings on the extent to which they used their talents to serve humanity and what they would be remembered for after death.
Executive Vice Chairman, Ibadan School for Government and Public Policies, Dr Tunji Olaopa, in his eulogy, urged government to make cultural heritage the centre of its development planning.
Noting that Faleti constantly revived Yoruba’s lost memory and heritage, he charged today’s youths not to abandon their roots.
He lauded Faleti as an epitome of a good elder, and someone to skillfully straddled several aspects of life.
Speaking, Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Mr Toye Arulogun, assured of the state government’s support for the family.
While appreciating Faleti’s excellence in acting, broadcasting, poetry, among others, Arulogun said the state government had put plans in motion to immortalise Faleti.
Oyo state director, NOA, Mrs Dolapo Dosumu, lauded Faleti’s sterling life, oratorical skills, traditional sartorial tastes and works which arc towards sociocultural rejuvenation.
She prayed Nigerians learn from Faleti’s good legacies, unquestioned repute, commitment to service of humanity, exemplary trail and morality.
Dosumu also pointed to Faleti’s transformative leadership style as pioneer state director in the defunct MAMSER now NOA.
Nollywood actor, Mr Tunbosun Odunsi recalled Faleti’s several prophetic declarations, in his works, to his home state, Oyo, Nigeria and the world, several of which had come to pass.
Former Director NOA Oyo State, Mr Femi Mapaderun avowed that Faleti’s works were bound to continually speak for him for ages to come.
Earlier, Reverend Kehinde Alabi, in his sermon, prayed human beings live responsible and impactful lives for which they will be remembered for.
He hinged the call on the fact that humans were bound to face God’s judgement after their lives.
Others like Dr Olatunde Oladotun, Chief Olatunbosun Oladapo, Mr Adebola Orunsolu said they imbibed the need to give back to the society from Faleti.
Guests at the event included, former Oyo Chief Judge, Justice Badejoko Adeniji; former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Mr Bisi Adesola; members of the Oyo House of Assembly, Honourable Muideen Olagunju and Honourable Gbenga Oyekola; singer, Evangelist Funmi Aragbaje; Chairman, Oyo Nigeria Union of Teachers, Mr Niyi Akano; Head, Public Affairs, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr Ayo Oyewole.
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