ODSG bids Ogunjobi farewell

By Femi Atolagbe
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The Ondo State government and its Football Agency joined the rest of the football family in Nigeria to give a final honour to Chief Taiwo Ogunjobi as the late football icon completed his journey home.

After a week-long burial activities Ogunjobi’s remains was finally laid to rest at the Livingspring Church Cemetery, Ojoo Road Ibadan, amidst sobering reflections and encomiums .

Before the internment, a Commendation Service was held at the Church’ Chapel, where presiding Pastor, Femi Emmanuel delivered a touching sermon, urging all to live a worthy life, as he reminded the congregation that man’s journey on earth is temporary and heaven is the only home.

Among the dignitaries present at the service were Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, represented by Commissioner for Sports, Saka Yusuf Ogunleye, ODSFA Chairman, Otunba Tajudeen Akinyemi and Director of Sunshine Stars, Prince Babatunde Ogunja.

Speaking shortly after the service, Governor Akeredolu described the death of the former Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation as a great loss, a sentiment echoed by Akinyemi and Ogunja.

They however found solace in Ogunjobi’s exploits and his great contributions to the Nigerian game during his life time.

Akeredolu, “It is on us to join millions of Nigeria in saying goodnight to a great soccer icon and administrator per excellence; some one that has contributed immensely to the development of sports (football) in Nigeria.

“This is a great loss, but we all came from God and to him we will all return. The fall of a green leave is a warning to others that we will all return to God someday. We bid him farewell and condone with his family. Goodnight Ogunjobi!”

Akinyemi,”His heart was open to all and he served the country so well as a player and administrator. Personally I consulted him on football administration issues and he availed himself always, I am grateful to him.

“On behalf of ODSFA I wish him good journey home and again condone with his family and the people of Osun State, Shooting Stars and Nigeria football generally.”

Ogunja,”Given his exploits right from our playing days in the academicals in the early 70s and with the national team he has done so well. We will miss him, miss his administrative acumen. “Sad he has gone forever!”