In February 2005, I assumed the role of coordinator for the Kwara State Fadama Development Project and secured accommodation adjacent to my workplace within the premises of the State Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources. After a year, I opted to relocate to a more suitable residence, given the demanding schedules of my wife and myself, coupled with the need for trustworthy neighbours to care for our three young children. Fortunately, one of my staff members, Hassan Koro, located a suitable property along Fate-Tanke Road. Although the house was incomplete, with the toilet and soakaway not yet ready, I volunteered to put it in order and subsequently moved in with my family.
The location proved ideal, particularly given the landlord's wife operated a tailoring business in the shop situated at the front of the premises, thereby providing a watchful eye over our children. As the first tenant, my landlord, whom I affectionately refer to as Baba, had created a two-bedroom apartment from part of his house to generate additional income following his retirement. I recall Baba's fervent morning prayers, which invariably included a heartfelt benediction for me, to which I would respond with an "Amen." His prayer was a touching testament to his kindness and goodwill towards me.
Years later, I had the opportunity to reciprocate Baba's kindness when I acquired a house in Agric Quarters, Ilorin. Upon taking him around the property, he expressed considerable excitement, and I confided in him about my financial constraints in completing the building. Encouragingly, he advised me to occupy the house and complete the remaining work at my own pace.
In 2020, I decided to relocate and sell my house in Agric Quarters, intending to purchase a new property in the vicinity of Fate or Tanke, which incidentally, was closer to my current workplace, the University of Ilorin . Meanwhile, Baba informed me that one of his neighbours was looking to sell their property, and I considered purchasing it. Although the initial asking price was prohibitive, Baba's intervention and the owner's son's facilitation ultimately led to a mutually agreeable price. I knew the owner's son way back, while we were students at the University of Ilorin. Interestingly, my late brother, Prof M.M. Akanbi, had also been negotiating to purchase a different property in the area, which Baba's wife had suggested I consider.
Baba's character was multifaceted; while he could be hot-tempered at times, our eighteen-year acquaintance was devoid of any conflict. He was a jovial individual who valued humanity above tribal and religious affiliations. When I inquired about renting his property despite being a Muslim in a predominantly non-Muslim setting, he replied that his role as a church elder did not preclude him from being compassionate towards people of other faiths. His tenants reflected the diversity of the community, Individuals from diverse ethnic backgrounds faith, including Yoruba, Hausa, Fulani, Igbo, Edo, and others, had lived harmoniously in his compound.
Sadly, Baba Oke, who hailed from Akoko area of Ondo State, passed away in the early hours of today, after a brief illness, leaving behind his wife, Iya Oke, and their children. I feel a deep sense of pity for his family, particularly his wife, whom he affectionately referred to as Iya Oke and was known to be particularly close with. May his soul find eternal peace, and may the Almighty God grant his family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss. My association with Baba Oke was indeed fruitful, and I shall always cherish the memories of our time together. He was, without doubt, a great blessing to me.
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