Oyetola, ex-justice honour late veteran broadcaster in Oyo

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy and former Osun State Governor, Adegboyega Oyetola, joined retired High Court Judge Justice Kunle Adeigbe to honor the late veteran broadcaster, Chief Adekunle Adeleke, at his funeral service in Ibadan, Oyo State. Both paid glowing tributes to Adeleke, who passed away at the age of 82, remembering him as an icon, mentor, and accomplished professional who left an indelible mark on broadcasting and public service.

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The news of the passing of Chief Kunle Adeleke, the Basorun of Iragbiji, at the ripe age of 82, has left us mourning the death of this distinguished son, accomplished professional, reverend educationist and great philanthropist.

In his tribute, Oyetola described Adeleke, the Basorun of Iragbiji, as a distinguished son, a reverend educationist, and a great philanthropist. He recalled Adeleke's remarkable career in broadcasting, his dignity, and his commitment to his community, noting that these qualities earned him a special place in the hearts of the people and the history of Iragbiji. Oyetola highlighted Adeleke's professionalism, eloquence, and dedication during the golden age of Western Nigeria Television and Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service, emphasizing that he belonged to a generation of broadcasters who understood and wielded the power of the spoken word with dignity and responsibility.

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Adeleke was a distinguished voice whose presence and personality commanded admiration and respect, particularly among those who grew up in Iragbiji.

Justice Adeigbe shared a more personal perspective, recalling Adeleke as a pioneer broadcaster, administrator, and mentor. He revealed that he served as Adeleke's Confidential Secretary in 1975 when Adeleke became the first Director of News and Current Affairs at WNTV/WNBS. Adeigbe noted that Adeleke was already an accomplished newscaster and interviewer before this appointment and later rose to serve as General Manager of the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State, Permanent Secretary in the old Oyo State, and Pioneer Director-General of the newly created Osun State in 1991. Adeigbe credited Adeleke with encouraging him to pursue further education and supporting his transition from broadcasting to law.

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Adeleke belonged to a generation of broadcasters who understood the power of the spoken word and used it with dignity and responsibility.

Adeleke's legacy was celebrated not only for his professional achievements but also for his personal influence. His death was mourned as the loss of a respected professional and a cherished figure, a proud son of Iragbiji. The tributes underscored his significant contributions to media and public administration, leaving behind an enduring legacy of inspiration and dignity.

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Adieu, Uncle Kunle. Thank you for the inspiration, the dignity and the legacy you left behind.