It’s often said that a father shapes the life of his children in ways that words cannot fully capture.
This is exactly the case with my father also known as MBC (being the number plate of his Volkswagen Beetle in the 1980s). Born, April 26, 1946, and passed away on October 10, 2024, he left a legacy that speaks volumes about the life he lived.
A community leader, a devoted family man, and a pioneer in local politics, my father wasn’t just a man of action but a man of immense foresight. Little wonder some others call you Aiyekooto!
We shared the same birthday—April 26—and I remember how we would celebrate those moments together, reflecting on life, family, and the values he instilled in me.
Though I attended public primary and secondary schools, my father made it a point to provide specialized teachers to assist me with my academics. It was because of his dedication to my academic success that I was able to consistently finish at the top of my classes throughout my basic education levels.
A Political Pioneer and Community Leader
Over two decades, he served in various capacities across multiple political platforms. His political journey began when he became an active player in the defunct GDM, later contributed to Afenifere Unity Forum, held various positions under Alliance for Democracy, Action Congress, Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), and eventually served as the pioneer Vice Chairman of the APC in Mushin Local Government.
His service wasn’t just a career for him; it was a calling.
I owe much of who I am today to the foundational guidance of my father. One of the most significant decisions I made in my life was moving back to Nigeria after completing my university education. It was he who convinced me to make this life-altering choice.
At the time, I was hesitant, unsure if relocating to Nigeria would be the right path for me. However, my father, with his characteristic wisdom, explained why coming back to our roots was essential not only for personal growth but for contributing to the nation we hold dear.
Looking back, I have no regrets about listening to his advice. He understood that success is best sustained when you invest in your family, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
A Man of Wisdom and Premonition
One of the most striking things about my father was his uncanny ability to sense things before they happened. He had a premonition of his own death. Though such moments are difficult for any family to face, MBC made it easier by rallying the family and ensuring we made enduring decisions that would secure the future for all of us.
This is the hallmark of a good father—thinking about the well-being of his family even in his final days. He didn’t just leave us with memories; he left us with direction and purpose.
Osu Lakesan, Isheri omo Oloko, Omo Olunla, Omo agbodere, omo kafopa wa, kafaje wa, ijo opa ba kan, t’aje sonu, ka fogedegende owo wa dele Isheri, Omo irinwo Opa, egberun aje, omo agbo dudu iyi owo wo nu oko to di funfun kenewen, aki gbo wo oko lowo Osu, eni ba gbowo Oko lowo Osu, ako pa, ako je, agborun alakeji lo.
Rest in peace, Dad. You have left a mark that time cannot erase, and we will carry your memory with us always.
Owolabi Jamiu Falana, MNIIA, MNIM