PSGS alumni mourn pioneer principal Adeleke, hail his legacy
Alumni of Progressive Secondary Grammar School (PSGS), Tede, in Oyo State, under the aegis of the Progressive Old Students’ Association, have paid tribute to the late pioneer principal of the
Alumni of Progressive Secondary Grammar School (PSGS), Tede, in Oyo State, under the aegis of the Progressive Old Students’ Association, have paid tribute to the late pioneer principal of the school, Chief Jonathan Adebunmi Adeleke.
The former students described Adeleke as “a visionary builder, a teacher of teachers, a prudent manager of resources, and a mentor whose impact shaped generations.”
The commendation was contained in a statement jointly signed by the association’s Interim National President, Dr. Funso Folaranmi, and Interim National Secretary, Tajudeen Alabede.
Advertisement
300x250
They noted that the late Atayese of Tedeland played a pivotal role in advancing infrastructure and creating a conducive environment for teaching and learning in the school.
The association described his passing as a significant loss to the institution, Tede community, Ede town, Oyo and Osun states, and the nation at large.
The statement said, "Appointed in 1976 as the first principal of PSGS following its upgrade from a modern school, Chief Adeleke laid the foundation for the institution’s rise in academics, sports, and cultural development. By 1981, he had successfully graduated the school’s first set of students, many of whom went on to become leaders across Nigeria and beyond. His philosophy of balanced education – intellectual, physical, and spiritual – shaped generations and instilled integrity, resilience, and service-mindedness.
"Chief Adeleke facilitated developmental interventions that provided the right infrastructure for a great learning environment. These included the establishment of science laboratories that were reputed to be among the best in the Old Oyo North Division. These facilities served not only PSGS but also neighbouring schools during terminal examinations.
"His passion for sports was unmatched. Under his stewardship, PSGS won laurels at divisional, state, and national competitions, including a gold medal in the 400-metre dash at the 1977 All-Nigeria Secondary Schools Games in Kaduna and victory for the women's handball team at Owerri ’78.
"Originally from Ede town in today’s Osun State, Chief Adeleke made Tede his home and forged deep bonds with students and the community. In 1984, his immense contributions were formally recognised when the then Onitede of Tede, Oba Salami Olukokun Aderounmu Alebiosun II, conferred on him the prestigious title of Atayese of Tedeland. The honor symbolized his role as a transformational leader whose work resonated across Oke-Ogun, Oyo State, and Nigeria at large.
"At POSAT's Night of Tributes held on April 7, 2026, the Onitede of Tede, Oba Abdul Rauf Adebimpe Oladoyin, led community and religious leaders, school management, staff representatives, old students, and other stakeholders who testified to Chief Adeleke’s enduring influence. The Association plans to immortalize his contributions through a legacy project during PSGS, Tede’s 50th anniversary celebrations later this year."
