PHOTO NEWS: Orangun of Oke-Ila celebrates former school principal at 93

The Orangun of Oke-Ila, Oba Adedokun Abolarin, has paid tribute to his former secondary school principal, Elder (Dr) Enoch Olaleye Dare, who clocked 93.

The monarch shared the tribute on social media, describing Dare, who was his principal at Adventist Grammar School, Ede, as a father figure, teacher and man of excellence who shaped the lives of his students.

Oba Abolarin was a student of the school between 1970 and 1974, during Dare’s tenure as principal. He described his former principal as a “futuristic, tireless teacher” who dedicated his career to shaping lives and producing responsible citizens.

Dare, a graduate of Government College, Ibadan and University College, Ibadan, became principal of Adventist Grammar School, Ede, in 1964 and served until 1975. He later worked at Baptist Grammar School, Ibadan, and Aquinas College, Akure, before retiring.

Reflecting on his relationship with the retired educationist, Oba Abolarin said Dare had continued to show respect for the traditional institution despite becoming his former student.

The monarch recalled how Dare and his late wife, Sabinah, visited Abolarin College, Oke-Ila Orangun, when they were 86 and 84 respectively, expressing joy at seeing the school’s activities and missionary work.

Oba Abolarin noted that some of Dare’s former students had gone on to become traditional rulers, including the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, and himself, describing their achievements as evidence of the impact of their former principal.

He thanked Dare for believing in his students, culture and the dignity of service, and prayed for his continued good health, strength and joy as he marked his 93rd birthday.