The array of personalities who graced the commendation service held in honour of Emeritus Professor Oladipo Olujimi Akinkugbe held at the All Saints’ Church, Jericho, Ibadan lends credence to the saying by Lee David Daniels that “Greatness is attainable. Greatness is multiple small achievements built over a period of time.”
Not minding the realities of the times, professionals from the Medical and Academic fields, Captains of industry, Clergymen and other notable personalities converged on Ibadan to pay their last respect to a man who touched countless lives through his medical practice spanning almost six decades.
In a sermon, the retired Bishop of Ondo Anglican Diocese, the Most Reverend George Lasebikan said though Emeritus professor Akinkugbe became a professor at the age of 35, he remained humble and simple.
Lamenting the rot and corruption now prevalent in Nigeria, the Most Reverend Lasebikan traced these to greed and materialism challenging Nigerians to shun such but rather emulate the values of hard work, as well as love for God and humanity which Professor Akinkugbe stood for.
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State represented by his Chief of Staff, Chief Oyebisi Ilaka lauded the immense and worthy contributions of Professor Akinkugbe to various fields of human endeavour.
He also described him as one of the shining lights of Ibadan and Oyo State, though a thorough-bred Ondo man.
Delivering an emotion-laden eulogy, a childhood friend of Professor Akinkugbe who is also a diplomat of note, Dr Christopher Kolade relived memories of their growing up years.
He noted that the deceased was very humorous and one who devoted his life to teaching, mentoring and developing medical practitioners across the globe.
In his tribute, the Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire who also attended the same alma mater with the deceased, Government College Ibadan, said Professor Akinkugbe was a towering figure in the field of medicine who was also very cultured and courteous and would be greatly missed.
Dignitaries who attended the commendation service include Dr Christopher Kolade and his wife, former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Mr Odein Ajumogobia, Professor Akin Mabogunje, Chief Kola Daisi, the Archbishop of Ibadan Anglican Province, The Most Reverend Segun Okubadejo, Bishop of Ibadan Anglican Diocese, Most Reverend Joseph Akinfenwa, Bishop Francis Wale Oke and wife of the Sword of the Spirit Ministries among other clergymen.
Our correspondent observed that the Covid-19 protocols were strictly adhered to at the service.
Professor Oladipo Akinkugbe, Aged 86 was a Commander of the Federal Republic, CFR.
He was widely travelled, highly accomplished, a recipient of many awards who also held chieftaincy titles.
He is survived by his wife, Professor Folasade Akinkugbe, children, grandchildren, in-laws and relatives.
Olutola Daramola
