Oloritun or Baba Soja as we used to called him, was a man like no other, a man of love, humility and compassion had a form in human then it was him, he was an icon worthy of emulation, a true definition of what a family should be like. He was a hero, a strong support system, a hardworking and strong individual who was always there for his family. Family meant so much to him he never travelled and left home for a long time. He was selfless, he lived for others, always willing to help, he was highly principled and stood firm for what he believed was in the general interest of everyone. He was a team maker, always there for peacekeeping and upholding family ties and friendship. He never allowed anyone ploy his fatherly roles such as; taking his children to school, giving them a well training.

April 8th, 2024, a day I will always remember in sadness. It’s been a few days Dad, but I don’t think I have accepted that i won’t see you again. This is not how I imagined you leaving me at all and it pains me to realize that you won’t be there for us your children to take care of you after struggling to bring us up, that you won’t be there for me to carry my yet to born child which will be your grandchildren.

Recently, I have been going down memory lane and I am proud that I was given the opportunity to call you my Father. A man who loved his family deeply, A man who worked hard to take care of his family, A man who brought us up in the way of the Lord, A man who was always willing to len a helping hand, A husband, A father, A friend, A playmate, A gist partner, A legend, A warrior, A generalissimo, A political icon, Key loyalist, leader, and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, A retired Nigerian Army, General Secretary of the Odua People’s Congress (OPC), Ogun State Chapter, and A man who was and is my number 1 role model. I never thought there was anything you couldn’t do if you wanted to Dad, well except avoid death.

There are so many memories to speak about but that would need more than a book to write it in.

My silent tears flow each time I remember you’re gone but your loving, caring, fatherly role and legacy will continue to give solace to my humble hearts. The morals and values you taught me will continue to be a guiding light in my lives. And also promise that I’ll try all my very possible best to live by the righteous virtues you’ve raised me with. I will always remember that charming smile of yours, that caring heart, and most importantly, a valuable life lesson that ‘love is the key’ and to always stay together through thick and thin, and to support, love and respect each other. You’re a great character worthy of emulation and i will love to live by your legacy. For as long as there is a memory they live in our hearts to stay.

I am pleased knowing heaven has gained an angel by the special grace of Almighty God because His mercy and signs were present during your last moments.

Truly, to God we belong and truly to Him we shall return. May Almighty God have mercy on my father, forgive his sins, shine his light upon him, expand his grave and grant him a better seat in the heavenly kingdom. And may He have mercy on all the ones that have passed before us. Amen.

Adieu dad!

Chief Dauda Owoseni Saliu

Oloritun (Eni-Itan 1) Ijoku Land, Sagamu

Olumale of Agura Land, Sagamu 

From your son:

Daniel Olamide Saliu (GENESIS)