Follow Us on Google
Layelu Town Hall, Ode-Aye, in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, was agog recently, thanks to the launch of a book written in honour of businessman, community leader and philanthropist, Chief Seinde Fadeni.
Fadeni, chairman, GMT Resources Limited, had wonderful moments with family, friends and admirers from all walks of life who thronged the venue to celebrate him.
In his speech, Mr. Ife Oyedele, who was the chairman of the event, applauded the author, Ibikunle Ikuyinminu, for taking the bold step by writing a book that encapsulates the life and times of Fadeni. He said the book revolved around the totality of the personality of the celebrator, including his philanthropy and other aspects of his private life that many of his admirers didn’t know.
Alade of Idanre, Oba Aladejumokun, who led other monarchs as well as sons and daughters of Okitipupaland to the event, told the guests that Fadeni had paid his dues in the development of the community and its environs. The monarch urged all the guests to emulate Fadeni’s philanthropic gestures
Vice Chancellor, Ondo State University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa, Prof. Robert Ogunduyile, who reviewed the book, paid glowing tributes to Fadeni, saying he almost turned down the invitation to be a guest and reviewer of the book but he changed his mind, taking into consideration the role Fadeni had played in the development of his society. He noted also that the man had given selfless service to the teeming populace in his community and beyond. Ogunduyile later reeled out details of each of the chapters of the book, just as he urged all the guests present to get a copy of the book for their libraries.
Many of the guests that spoke about Fadeni eulogised his exemplary life. Chairman, Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, Mrs. Morenike Alaka, and Chief Timothy Ayenuyo were among those who poured encomiums on the businessman.
Ayenuyo said: “From his simple lifestyle and philanthropic gesture, among others, Fadeni shone like a star. He exhibited his humility and candour anytime and in all places.”
His mother, Chief (Mrs.) Alice Fadeni, his wife, Ebundola, brother, Femi, and others at the ceremony said they were all proud of him.
Ikuyinminu told the reporter the reason for writing the book.
“I was compelled by the excellent initiatives, self sacrifice, generosity, incalculable financial support, moral inspiration, voluntary bearing of excusable societal burdens of Sir Seinde Fadeni to single him out for profound commendation. That was why I did the book in his honour,” he said.
The author described the book as an expose on a consummate businessman’s passion and dedication to assisting humanity. To him, the honoree should be emulated for his selfless giving and charitable conduct.
Fadeni later joined all the dignitaries to launch the book. He expressed gratitude for the honour done for him. He singled out his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Ebundola for her support at all times.
