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He is unassuming, modest. But he is not withdrawn or shy. Neither is he given to pretension. That’s far from it. He is down to earth with uncommon honesty.
Olatunji Bello is it! What a study in courage. He started his sojourn some 62 years ago. Yes, exactly on July 1, 1961. He almost hit the ground running immediately. And there has been no stopping him.
Our paths first crossed sometime in 1997. It was an evening event, Ikorodu Road, Lagos. He was editor, Sunday Concord, while I was editor, Sunday Tribune.
And we got stuck at that first sight. There has been no looking back. Rather, it’s forward ever. We keep on waxing stronger. He happened to me at some critical periods. He did make timely interventions.
I do confess, these were impactful and everlasting. I am forever grateful. He would not want me to make reference to any. Not even a remote or faint one, now or in future.
Bello’s media career started and grew in the Concord Group. He entered as a features writer. He ended editing the Sunday and the Daily titles at different times.
It was an accomplished journalism career for him. He landed as chairman, editorial board, Thisday newspapers. That was after the military junta of the time crippled Concord.
His journalism zeal came handy for him as a politician. And he reaps bountifully from his dedication, diligence and loyalty. His mentor and principal, now President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, couldn’t be wrong.
His testimony in his book, “In Pursuit of the Public Purpose – Essays in Honour of Tunji Bello at 60,” was profound: “Tunji is of strong character, integrity, honesty and intellect.
“I have had the unique pleasure to watch him grow and evolve over the years, always striving to do better and be better, although he was already more than good enough.” The President won’t stop at that.
He confirmed Bello as a perfectionist of repute: “A man of excellence, he never did a partial job or made excuses. He got the work done better than I thought possible.”
Tinubu’s final words. Only for the purpose of this piece: “What motivates Tunji is that he has the soul force of a humanitarian. Despite all he is and has done, he is among the most good-natured and kind-spirited of us all.” Gbam! He sealed it.
Bello knew what he wanted. He knew he would end up in politics. So? He started early enough at the premier University of Ibadan. He was elected vice president of the Students’ Union.
That aptly explains his exploits in politics. He has been commissioner and Secretary to State Government (SSG) in Lagos State. That has been his lot since 1999.
He has a strong home front. And in perfect partnership with Professor Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University (LASU). They jointly hold sway.
Olatunji Bello, the skilful journalist, lawyer and administrator. Continue to soar like an eagle, conquering new territories.
At 62, you have not even started!
