Celebrating Prof. Adesanoye at 80

Well, his birth may have not been heralded by the appearance of many stars, but Prof. Adesanoye rose to be a bright and shining star before he bowed out of service with his head held high. He represents the rare breed of men who combines intellectualism with deft administrative prowess, thus, serving with his head, heart and hands. Without doubt, his life is one of the few of whom it can be truly said, have brought blessings to many generations. His life is true testament to living with purpose and passion. As his dressing is distinct, so is his cackling laughter. His car was always different in the parking lot in the Faculty: clean and dazzling. He really loves good cars. Baba is a veritable teacher and a rational researcher. He is a good father who is worth a hundred teachers. He is a mentor and motivator.

Interestingly, I count it a rare privilege to have been taught and mentored by Prof. Adesanoye. His contribution to my academic life, to say the least, is simply invaluable. He taught me at both undergraduate and post graduate levels. Even when I was defending my PhD dissertation, he came out of retirement in support and solidarity. However, times  and seasons usually present certain individuals to strategically impact other people's lives. Prof. Adesanoye was strategically positioned as the Head of Department of Communication and Language Arts when I decided to rewrite my academic story. After the completion of a professional Master degree (MCA), I decided to return to 200 level for undergraduate studies through Direct Entry. This was because I had earlier had Higher National Diploma (HND) which was being disparaged and discriminated against. Prof. Adesanoye liked my passion and decision, but certain elements kicked against it for the reasons best known to them.

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     It was a tough battle. Prof. Adesanoye as HOD, leading my defence, ably assisted by Mr. Olumuyiwa Soyannwo who was then handling admission matters for Faculty of Arts, Both of them who have now retired, faced the then Admission Officer, Mrs. Omotayo Ikotun in a battle of wits. After a rigorous war of words in the boardroom, Prof. Adesanoye won as I was admitted against all odds. Both Prof. Adesanoye and Mr. Soyannwo remain the heroes of that epic battle. I can't be any less grateful for all Prof. Adesanoye has done for me. In the classroom, Baba rere created an environment where curiosity was encouraged and critical thinking was nurtured. We can never forget his contagious and characteristic joviality as this amazing lecturer of honour, humour, and humility took us on the academic journey of knowledge with amazing conviviality. When someone challenged him on why he taught us amidst laughter, Prof. Adesanoye quoted one Prof. White as having said, "you cannot educate people without entertaining them". Therefore, his class became ever therapeutic and allowed individuals to experience emotional catharsis. He demonstrated with distinction, commitment to mentee's progress. With his excellent phonetics and dazzling mannerism of delivery, Prof. Adesanoye demonstrated an elevated level of academic acumen in navigating complex issues.

What an immense pleasure and privilege it has been for me to have known Prof. Adesanoye. This academic tactician taught us with passion and patience. His words and wisdom shaped both minds and morality. His jokes, anecdotes, and philosophical narratives were embellishments that adequately complemented his pedagogical strategies. The ambience around him created such a relaxing environment for free communication and cross fertilization of ideas. But you must be careful with the construction and shaping of your thoughts with good English as you hardly could make three sentences before Baba rere  would stop and correct you. For example, someone in the class who thought he understood English language more than the specialist in error analysis had said, inter alia, "I have not gotten over the shock" when Prof. Adesanoye pursed him, saying, "That was an error" . All the class members were dazed! "What is the problem with that sentence?" , we wondered. But Baba taught us what we didn't know. Hear him, "Gotten is an American English. You can't mix American English with British English. We speak British English here.  The right thing to say is "I have not got over the shock". That amounts to language mulatto when you mix American and British's"

    Apart from teaching me in the classroom, Prof. Adesanoye has supported me in ways too numerous to detail. For instance, during my mother's burial ceremony in 2009, he did not just give me money, he also lent me money. Little wonder people call him, Baba rere. When I first applied for a job in UI, he wrote for me a powerful reference letter. He did not stop there. He moved around to sell my potential to those who mattered. But unfortunately, I didn't get the job, but I got recognition. However, Baba is enormously gifted in empathy and sympathy . He is a friendly father figure whose guidance has shaped not only many people's scholarly pursuits, but also my approach to life and learning. He is the ready reference role model, whose life is ever untainted with scandal. He is committed to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and excellence in everything he does, just as he leads with character and competence.

     Amazingly, his life's work has been conducted with the precision of a master composer, crafting distinct notes that blend together into an awe-inspiring melody. He has truly shown the world what it means to embrace life with grace, resilience, and an unwavering zest. While Prof. Adesanoye takes pleasure in promoting the learning and development of others, he has equally shaped minds, challenged thoughts and elevated conversations. He is an intellectual titan and personage for whom I place considerable respect, for he epitomizes humility,humour, honour and humanity. Baba rere's lectures were not merely educational, they were transformative experiences that ignited passion for more knowledge. Impressively, his temperament rejects every iota of practices that suborn human happiness.

At 80, Prof. Adesanoye now belongs to the pantheon of our living legends for his influence will ripple through generations. As he celebrates his octogenarian status, we honour his remarkable journey which has been woven with threads of style and substance, grace and impactful leadership. At 80, Baba rere sways with an assured grace that is both inspiring and endearing. His warmth and generosity have created bonds that strengthen us all. Baba is not just kind, he is gracious and approachable. With every conversation, he inspires excellence and instills confidence. Sir, we honour your nobility, intellectual fecundity and goodwill that have touched countless lives. Baba, your ingenuity and generosity of spirit have earned you a special place in many hearts. Your erudition is such that no specialist in your discipline can belittle.

At 80, my prayer is that the good Lord will continue to strengthen Prof. Festus Agboola Adesanoye to celebrate many more years in endless wealth and vigorous health.

•Saanu, PhD, is the Director, Directorate of Public Affairs and Communication (DIPAC), Federal University Oye-Ekiti. Email: sundaysaanu@gmail.com

Phone: 08034073427