24th July, 2017
Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State has described the death of ace broadcaster, writer, poet and actor, Chief Adebayo Faleti, as shocking and devastating.
Faleti, aged 86, died on Sunday at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.
In a statement by the governor’s Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy, Mr Yomi Layinka, Ajimobi also described the octogenarian as a repository of Yoruba culture and tradition.
Faleti was also a good ambassador of the state, he said.
“Even though Baba Faleti died at the ripe age of 86, his passing away is very unfortunate, disheartening and sad.
“Part of the things that endeared him to my heart was his simple lifestyle, his dislike for material wealth and commitment to the progress of the Yoruba race.
“Instead of allowing his humble background to serve as a barrier for his career progression, Chief Faleti defied all odds.
‘’He ensured that he trained himself up to the university level, even at a time when education was not too attractive.
“As a pioneer staff of the first television station in Africa, Western Nigeria Television (WNTV), he exhibited his dexterity in broadcasting, while he imparted morals in the younger generation through his various books, poems and acting.
“In recognition of his contributions to the development of Yoruba culture and tradition, the Federal Government conferred on him the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON),” Ajimobi said.
Ajimobi said that with Chief Faleti’s demise, the state had lost one of its cultural icons who had brought it fame and honour through his various activities in broadcasting, publishing and film industry.
He, however, called on members of his immediate family, friends and associates to celebrate rather than mourn the deceased, having lived a fulfilled life worthy of emulation.