Comrade Ambassador Tunde Oladunjoye (CATO) Onigegewura Akile 1 of Ijebuland: Exit of a Patriot, Nationalist and Mentor

Comrade Ambassador Tunde Oladunjoye (CATO) Onigegewura Akile 1 of Ijebuland: Exit of a Patriot, Nationalist and Mentor

Nelson Ekujumi 

Since news broke about the untimely and unexpected demise of CATO Onigegewura Akile 1 of Ijebuland, I have been heartbroken and unable to come to terms with this sad and distressing news.

Comrade Ambassador Tunde Oladunjoye (CATO) meant so many things to so many people, he was a comrade, politician, philanthropist, humanist, community leader, grassroots mobilizer, developmental expert, journalist, patriot, nationalist, faithful and passionate Ambassador of Ijebuland and Nigeria, a devout Muslim and a dedicated family man.

Though I cannot recall how our paths crossed, what is indisputable, is that myself and CATO shared common affinity on so many fronts, though we had our differences, but it never affected our relationship for a better society.

Onigegewura Akile 1 of Ijebuland was a peoples General, whom you can go to war alongside with your eyes closed. He was a welfarist who cared about people around him and beyond.

We both engaged on a lot of national issues, CATO was one individual whose stand on issues was unmistakable and he wouldn't hide behind a finger to let you know where he stands. He was honest, fearless, forthright and principled. 

Tunde Ayinde Oladunjoye was a special gift to humanity because he always put the interest of others far and above his personal interest and comfort.

CATO, if words can bring you back, I won't mind penning a tribute to your caring memory from now till forever because you meant a lot to me than words can describe, but I take solace in the fact that Allah knows best.

Tunde Ayinde Oladunjoye, you were my comrade, friend, brother, companion, leader, role model, mentor, motivator and inspiration beyond description.

To the immediate and extended family, friends , associates and acquaintances of CATO Onigegewura Akile 1 of Ijebuland, I pray that may the Almighty Allah comfort us all because this loss is indescribable, as I wish Allah to grant his soul aljanat fridaus.

Sleep well my leader, brother and friend.