The late Ooni of Ife and ex-Governor of Western Region of Nigeria between 1960 and 1962, Oba Tadenikawo Adesoji Aderemi, has been honoured by the Museum of Natural History of Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) as part of the activities marking the 60th anniversary of the institution, FTNEWS reports.
Oba Aderemi, who was the Ooni of Ife from 1930 to 1980, was a founding father of the prestigious University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.
The A. G. Leventis Museum of Natural History, OAU, celebrated the 60th anniversary of the institution and fifty years of existence of the OAU Natural History Museum with an anniversary lecture, award ceremony and a special exhibition featuring relics and photographs showing the times and life of Oba Adesoji Aderemi (KCMG), which will be opened to the general public till December 31, 2021.
Receiving the award on behalf of their father, Prince Aderounmu Aderemi and Prince Owoade Aderemi, thanked the management of OAU and the Natural History Museum for keeping the legacy of Oba Adesoji Aderemi alive.
Other award recipients are late Dr. A. A.Ayansola, Prof. M. A. Isawumi, Olasupo Shasore (SAN), and HRM Oba (Dr.) Olufolarin Ogunsanwo.
Some of the personalities in attendance at the event include the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II; OAU Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Professor Daramola, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Eyitope Ogunbodede; and the Chairman of the OAU @60, Professor Charles Ugochukwu Ukeje.
Speaking, the Director of A. G. Leventis Museum of Natural History, Prof. Adisa Ogunfolakan, said Oba Adesoji Aderemi was honoured with the award for his role in the establishment of the university, his visionary, selfless, courageous and progressive leadership that impacted on a better tomorrow for the ancient city of Ile-Ife and the entire country.
He added that the late Ooni of Ife was honoured for his contribution in protecting the rich cultural resources God gave Ile-Ife, which gave the ancient town the desired attention required of the cradle of the Yoruba race and in putting records straight concerning Ife Arts.
In his own remark, Oba Ogunwusi said late Oba Aderemi who he delightfully refers to as his grandfather is the epitome of visionary leadership, a king with indelible track record and a fore father worthy of emulation.