My father wished he clocked 90 –Odunewu’s son

[Mirror]

The late veteran journalist, Ahaji Alade Odunewu's wish was to clock 90 years on earth.

His first son, Mr. Akanni Odunewu, disclosed this yesterday in an interview with our correspondent shortly after the three-day prayer conducted by the Chief Imam of Rabiatu Abayomi Oredapo mosque, Lawanson, Alhaji Abdul Azeez Arikewuyo, at the Odunewu's residence at Ikoyi, Lagos.

Odunewu, described as the father of modern journalism in Nigeria, died last Thursday in Lagos at the age of 85 years.

Akanni said his father wanted to stay around for some years with his children, following the death of their mother last year, adding that his father was a complete gentleman, who was resolute about things and equally committed in the pursuit of whatever he believed in.

He said: "My father was a fulfilled man, except that he did not live to see his 90th birthday as he had wished.

"He was a man who loved journalism and committed everything to his profession. I did not study journalism, I am an economist. My siblings too did not study journalism, but we are grateful for great success he achieved in his chosen career. He left an indelible mark."

Akanni also disclosed that the eight-day prayer for the deceased would hold on Friday at Ikoyi Club, Lagos.

Many distinguished Nigerians eulogised Odunewu in condolence register at his residence.

For instance, Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, wrote: "The loss of a truly great icon shun the entire world of great journalism and committed nationalism. Papa, you live a great life and left excellent legacies. May you rest in perfect peace."

Meanwhile, Oyo State Governor Abiola Ajimobi has commiserated with the family of the late former Chairman of Nigerian Press Council, NPC, Odunewu, popularly known as Allah De.

This was as the Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola paid a condolence visit to the Ikoyi home of the family of late Allah De.

Signing the condolence register after commiserating with the family, Fashola prayed God to grant repose to the departed soul.

National Mirror