Ibadan – Mr Ogungbemi Oguntula, a Director with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), retired from service in Ibadan on Friday.
NAN recalls that Oguntula, 60, joined the services of the agency in 1983.
Ven. B.O Bolodeoku at the Birthday and Retirement Thanksgiving Service held at All Souls’ Church, Bodija, described Oguntula as a man who enjoyed God’s mercies all through.
Bolodeoku recounted the various tribulations encountered by the celebrant, saying he had triumphed over them through the mercies of God upon his life.
According to him, “Oguntula survived three major tribulations, which had written him off for dead but for the grace of God.
“He was involved in a vehicular accident at Western Avenue, Lagos in 1977 but survived. He suffered another major attack which almost claimed his life but overcame.
“Another major incident which the celebrant survived was a brain surgery in 2009. All these were not just mere incidents that could be survived if not for the love of God.’’
He admonished Oguntula to be closer and thankful to God all through his retirement, saying he owed God a huge debt of gratitude.
Bolodeoku urged the people to renew the mercies of God in their lives by renewing their relationship with God.
Mr Jide Adebayo, retired Executive Director of the agency, said Oguntula was a dedicated and reliable colleague, who committed his best for the greatness of the agency.
Adebayo said that Oguntula was humble to the core and did not take his job for granted.
“We cut edge together in the last 34 years. I wish him a very successful and blessed retirement‘’, he said.
Mr Mufutau Ojo, the Zonal Manager, NAN, Ibadan described Oguntula as a father and colleague, who devoted much time in advising and rallying the staff for good.
He described the celebrant’s humility as very rare, adding that he related well with everyone not minding status or cadre.
Mr Dupe Omisore, an Architect and the Chairman of the occasion, said “Oguntula is fulfilled in life because of his humility and relationship with God’’, urging all to emulate such.
Also, Bose, wife of the celebrant, described her husband as a loving father, husband and friend, who was never found wanting in his responsibilities.
The celebrant, who gave thanks to God for his life, commended his wife for her ever supportive role, saying she was a mother, wife and friend.
He appreciated the children, friends, members of the NAN family and well-wishers for their unflinching support all through, saying he would remain supportive wherever his contributions was needed.
NAN reports that the event featured a special hour of celebration by NAN staff
in
Ibadan, cutting of the birthday cake and hour of testimonies
The event was attended by Justice Olatokunbo Olopade, the Chief Judge of Ogun State, Mama Cecilia Oguntula, the celebrant’s mother, Prof. Soji Adejumo and Mr Yanju Adegbite.
Also in attendance were members of NAN family across the country and other well wishers. (NAN)
