By Babatunde Ayedoju

The Chairman of Akure South Local Government in Ondo State, Dr. Gbenga Fasua, has renamed the local government secrétariat’s office complex, formerly known as Ẹkun House, after the immediate past Secretary to the State Government, late Temitayo Oluwaseye Oluwatuyi, aka Tuykana.

While speaking at the ceremony organised in honour of the late SSG at the local government secretariat on Monday, Fasua described late Tuykana as a mentor and father figure who dedicated his life to the service of the state and the development of the land.

He said, “During your time, you made milestone achievements that transformed Akure and you were instrumental to many infrastructural development and economic empowerment in Akure South Local Government area.

“We cherish your dedication to humanity. Let this building serve as a constant reminder of your legacy and the impact you made.”

Addressing the press, the local government chairman said that the decision to immortalise Tuykana was motivated by the late SSG’s exceptional qualities, adding that the late political icon touched many lives.

His words: “Late Oluwatuyi was chairman of the local government, two times commissioner and SSG. If God had permitted, we would have loved that he lived forever.”

He added that his administration has a lot of programmes in the pipeline for the people of Akure South, stressing that this is the dawn of a new era for the council.

The Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, Odundun II, represented by Chief Filani Folorunso Filani, said that late Oluwatuyi contributed extensively to the development of Akure, and thanked the Ondo State Government for giving him a befitting burial.

Former Chairman of Akure South Local Government, Dr S. B. Akerele, described Oluwatuyi as a decent and hardworking man who laboured for the state to make progress, praying to God to continue to console his family.

“Thank God for all that he achieved during his lifetime. We are here to celebrate his achievements, which his family should be proud of,” he added.

A close associate of the late SSG, Prince Akinwunmi Falodun, described him as one of the most humble politicians who treated everybody equally, adding that God gives and God takes.

Addressing the audience, Chief Imam of Akure, Alhaji AbdulHakeem Yayi -Akorede, emphasised that the occasion was a reward for Tuykana’s selfless service to humanity, adding that he was a very humble man who was always ready to help the helpless.

Representatives of the late SSG’s family who spoke expressed their profound gratitude to the Akure South Local Government for immortalising their departed icon.

In her vote of thanks, the Akure South Local Government Head of Administration, Mrs. Dupe Omoloja, said that the occasion was a big lesson for everybody to serve well wherever they find themselves, stressing that their legacy would forever be remembered.