It was glitz and glamour on Sunday, March 10, 2025, when the iconic Femi Meshe celebrated the 85th birthday of his father, Pa Julius Idowu Meshe.
The event, which was held at the International Cultural and Events Centre (Dome), Igbatoro Road, Akure, was attended by the Ondo State governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the Deji of Akure and chairman of the State council of Traditional rulers, Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo Ogunlusi, and other people from all walks of life.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, while paying tribute to the celebrant, said it was a thing of joy to celebrate the octogenarian at the age of 85. The governor described the celebrant as an icon, saying he was a lover of his children and the people around him.
Governor Aiyedatiwa said: “I celebrate with you and I wish you well for reaching the age of 85 years. It is a thing of joy for your children and the family. You look like a young man, yet at 85.
“On behalf of myself, family and the good people of Ondo State, I congratulate you. I pray for more years for you in good health.
“What we are seeing today is a celebration of the life of an icon who has contributed immensely to the upliftment of his family and development of his town to a large extent.”
In his own remarks, Femi Meshe described his father as a man that truly loves his family, saying: “Baba is a man that can go to any extent in providing for his family. When we were younger, Baba made sure that he gave us the best. He is a father in a million.”
Mrs Yetunde Omorode , daughter of the celebrant , gave good accounts of her father ,as a rare gem.
She said ” Our father is a rare bred created by God . Right from the beginning, he has been there for us , he loves us and we love him dearly. And that is the testimony of what you are all witnessing today “
The daughter-in-law of the celebrant, Mrs. Helenah Meshe, described him as a father and not a father-in-law. According to her, “the role that Baba played in my life is an exemplary one.”
She said: “Baba is an exemplary father-in-law whose role in my family has made him a wonderful father. I am happy to be her daughter-in-law.”
Deji Meshe, one of the celebrant’s children, described his father as a role model who should be emulated by all fathers. He said his father was a regular caller who was fond of checking on him every other day. He said Baba would always mention Akure whenever he called.
“My father is a role model. His love for his children could not be quantified. He calls us every other day to know our well being and at the end of the call, Baba would say, I am calling from Nigeria, Akure.”
The event witnessed arrays of monarchs led by the Deji of Akure and chairman of Ondo State council of Traditional rulers, Oba Ogunlade Aladetoyinbo Ogunlusi, including Osemawe of Ondo kingdom, Oba (Dr) Victor Kiladejo Adesunmbo ,religious leaders, retired Generals and businessmen.
