Obasanjo mourns Soun’s passage, says late monarch’s contribution indelible

Late Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oyewumi

Former president, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, on Sunday, said that the contribution of the late Soun of Ogbomoso in Oyo State, Oba Jimoh Oyewunmi, to the political, social and economic development of Ogbomosoland would remain indelible in the consciousness of those who interacted with him politically and socially.

Obasanjo in a tribute in memory of the late traditional ruler titled ‘I have lost a good friend- HRM Oba (Dr) Oladunni Oyewunmi -The Soun of Ogbomosoland, made available to journalists through his media aide, Kehinde Akinyemi, submitted that the late monarch who reigned for 48 years, was a patriot and a custodian of cultural and traditional values.

He described as an extraordinary person blessed with qualities and characteristics which made him one of the most unforgettable men of their generation.

“He was a successful businessman. He was one of those, early in the history of Nigeria, that really made living outside one’s place of birth a home and great success. I can still vividly remember his contribution to social life in Jos in the 1960s and 70s. He made his business in Jos where he was well at home and respected. I met him in Jos in 1961 and since then we had become friends.

“He lived a life of not only of service but also of peace among his fellow Obas and within his own community without allowing himself to be swayed from what is right and correct for a traditional ruler by politicians. He represented the absolute pinnacle of the Nigerian spirit. ..’A truly noble human being, he was a king among men who earned the respect and admiration of all. Yet he never lost the humane touch.

Hardworking, gentle, kind, humble, giving, generous and true, he embodied all the best of what it is to be human. Indeed, Ogbomosoland has lost a great monarch, and Oyo State, a towering personality whose benign influence will be difficult to replace.

“It is my prayer that his rare qualities will live forever in the minds and hearts of all who knew him and I encourage them to preserve his legacy by imitating him.

“May God grant his family, the good people of Ogbomosoland and the entire Oyo State the grace to bear the heavy loss of his death.”

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