was a gathering of political giants as a respected politician, former Secretary to the State Government, and now Executive Director, Corporate Services, of the Niger Delta Development Commission, Ifedayo Abegunde, fondly known as ‘Abena’ marked his 70th birthday.

The party was held at the International Culture and Events Centre, The Dome, Alagbaka-Akure, in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, and the venue was bathed in golden splendour, music, dance and food. It also featured the launch of a book, titled, ‘Abena’

Some of the prominent Nigerians, who attended the party include Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and his wife, Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa.

Aiyedatiwa who led the pack of dignitaries, described Abegunde as, “A man of the people, a dependable leader who has always used every office he held to bring positive impact to the lives of the masses.”

Some of the highlights of the event were the cutting of the three-step gold-plaited cake and the launch of ‘Abena’.  The book, which detailed Abegunde’s journey from his humble beginnings through political service to his new role, was richly adorned with testimonials, photos, and tributes.

Meanwhile, just a day before the birthday, Abegunde and his wife, Olajumoke, were conferred with prestigious chieftaincy titles as the Asiwaju and Yeye Asiwaju of Akure Kingdom by the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi.

They were joined by the Ondo State Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami, Minister of Youth Development, Ayo Olawande; and a host of past and present National Assembly members, including Senator Olajide Ipinsagba and Adeniyi Adegbonmire, SAN.

House of Reps members such as Festus Akingbaso, Ifeoluwa Ehindero, and Abiola Makinde; APC State Chairman, Ade Adetimehin; former Deputy Governor Omolade Oluwateru, and Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, former PDP gubernatorial candidate were also present.

Also in attendance were traditional rulers, including the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, who praised the celebrant’s humility and service to humanity.

Another unforgettable moment came when juju music icon, Sunday Adegeye, better known as King Sunny Ade, took the stage.

The legend serenaded the audience with classic hits and customised praise lines that had guests swaying and clapping