My path crossed yours when you were ‘MR’ and the relationship continued unabated till this moment without any break whatsoever. What gave birth to the genesis of our relationship was the ugly image our dear state was characterised with as at that time and a replay of it which is unfortunately in progress at the moment.

As a young graduate, an activist and a student’s union leader, I was looking for Ekiti individuals that were selfless, courageous, motivating, bold, brilliant and balanced to support my course in ending the impunity and theatrical show of shame in our state, without mincing words, your name appeared on top of the list. I came to your office at The News Magazine, Acme Road, off Agidingbi road, we were ushered in and as you were busy attending to many assignments regarding news to be published, and you ensured your attention was given to us. As a young but jobless graduate with a tattered jeans and dilapidated shoe, you accorded me respect I didn’t deserve. Since then, the relationship has grown beyond my expectation. The chronicles of subsequent happenings to be relayed in no distant future.
When I was leaving the shore of Nigeria, your moral support was invaluable and undoubtedly contributed to my success in all fronts. Immediately after my master’s degree in Edinburgh, I was nominated as the ‘Excel Student of the Year’. I placed a call to you immediately and said “this is dedicated to you”. Your joy knew no bound and further words of encouragement from you came as usual. You were still in your cherished and adored journalism then. Your sojourn in Nigerian political route today has not changed Mr Babafemi Ojudu that I knew then, neither has the euphoria of senatorial title or presidential aide affected your original, factual, truthful and frank qualities in you.
It was even when you became a senator that you invited me for a talk and during the discussion, people were coming in, you did not hesitate in inviting me to the inner room, this is a rare quality. As fate would have it, I ventured into journalism by publishing a magazine. I informed you and you gave me an indispensable advice which piloted the business to a greater height. When it was time to launch the magazine in Lagos- Nigeria, you came all the way from Abuja to Lagos as the chief launcher. What else do I expect from a man who gives me his time, attention and love?
One thing that has remained germane in my thought is that an Ekiti man that one can show off with, that we can showcase without hesitation and capable of representing Ekiti is Babafemi Ojudu. What a leader? You never severe our relationship because I did not cross to the side you are politically.
I celebrate you today as you clock 56 in good health, higher position and in hope of highest seat.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SIR…..

Yemi Ayodele AYENI