Alhaji Olawale Saliu-Okulu, Baameto Of Epe, Clocks 70 In Grand Style

“Having retired, I am now devoted to serving my community” – Alhaji Alade Olawale Saliu-Okulu

On Saturday, May 8, 2021, Alhaji Alade Olawale Saliu-Okulu, the Baameto of Epe Kingdom, joined the septuagenarian ranks amid endless glee and gaiety.

The event, which held at the Ojodu Estate Recreation Field, played host to notable dignitaries from far and near who turned out en masse to celebrate the retired Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service.

Speaking during an interview with EKO HOT BLOG on the momentous occasion, Alhaji Saliu-Okulu attributed the good fortune of chiming today’s average life expectancy to divine providence.

“I give God the praise. It is by his grace. Nobody can determine how long he or she spend on mother earth. I feel fulfilled. I feel happy. I feel excited, most especially with my children, my siblings, all my family members and friends sending me birthday greetings. I am overwhelmed with joy and I thank God Almighty for his mercies on me and my family.”

The Baameto of Epe Kingdom also took time to reflect on his life’s sojourn and how retirement from active service about a decade ago has helped him commit his time and resources to community service.

“I try to be modest. I try to help others where I can. I try to give service to my community, because as a good Muslim, if you serve your community, it is an act of worship. I have served my country by virtue of my years with the Nigeria Customs Service. Having retired, I am now devoted to serving my community,” he said.

Hon Wale Raji, Member Representing Epe Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Representatives, who also spoke with EKO HOT BLOG during the occasion extolled the virtues of the newest member of the septuagenarian class, describing him as a man of substance and integrity.

{from far right} Hon Wale Raji and friends

Highlights of the event featured tributes from family and friends, a Ramadan lecture, music, dance, amid an endless array of entertainment, all of which added spice to the occasion.

In his vote of thanks, the celebrant once again appreciated God for the grace upon his life. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to his friends for their unalloyed support and fellowship over the years. He attributed his nudge to mark his 70th birth anniversary with a Thanksgiving ‘Dua to his name, which literally translates to “giving thanks.”

The curtain of the event was drawn with distribution of souvenir items to guests who had turned out to honour a rare humanitarian.

Ronny Ikpoto

Edidiong-Ronny Ikpoto holds a First Class degree in Media Studies. He shares a healthy enthusiasm for journalism, social & literary criticism, and creative writing.