Prince Olusi at 90: Leadership and symbolism — by Dare Babarinsa
Prince Tajudeen Olusi, the chairman of the powerful Governor’s Advisory Council, who just turned 90, is one of the most influential persons in Lagos State. He is now the Baba Adinni of Yorubaland, a title once held by Chief Moshood Abiola, the late publisher of the Concord Group of Newspapers.
I first met Baba during the ill-fated Second Republic when he was a member of the House of Representatives, and l was the Concord National Assembly Corresondent. Since then, Baba has been many things. I think it was last year when he was honoured by our father, the Ewi of Ado Ekiti, Oba Rufus Adejugbe that I visited him at the Government House, where he received hospitality from the Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji. I found him well-informed, deep and tenacious about his beliefs.
When he showed up at the public lecture in Lagos to commemorate the 100th birthday of Papa Reuben Fasoranti, the Leader of Afenifere and Asiwaju Yoruba, l was greatly delighted. The symbolism of his presence was not lost on us. Papa Olusi, who was one of the young leaders who organised the Triumphant Entry of Chief Obafemi Awolowo into Lagos in 1963, has seen a lot. He knows the meaning of symbolism. At 90, he remains a living symbol of our struggle and resilience.
Congratulations Papa! Happy birthday!
