Adebayo Faleti laid to rest amidst eulogies

The remains of the celebrated poet, playwright and actor, Adebayo Faleti, were laid to rest on Friday at Agboye Village in Oyo town in Oyo State.

The art veteran died on July 23 at the age of 95.

The Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Culture and Tourism, Toye Arulogun, who represented the state governor, Abiola Ajimobi, described Faleti as a man, who left giant footprints behind; not just in the art sector, but in life generally.

He said, “Faleti added value to the lives of a lot of people. He was a literary giant, poet, versatile broadcaster and a repository of Yoruba culture. He was a fine gentleman and a rare gift to Oyo State.

“It is not everybody that makes such impact especially in creative works like he has done. He was an exemplary character, who gave us the kind of glory we have got, and Oyo State will surely immortalise him. Whatever legacies he has left, we shall ensure we build on them.”

Retired Methodist Archbishop, Ayo Ladigbolu, in his sermon described Faleti as an enigmatic, innovative, bold, courageous, talented and incorruptible man, who translated the National Anthem from English to Yoruba.

Actor, Dele Odule, who was among top entertainers at the event, described the late thespian as a man full of quality virtues.

He said, “He was a disciplinarian and courageous person. I have learnt from him a lot of virtues because Baba would always tell you that when the situation is tough, only those who are tougher get going. He believed that when you fail, you should not be disappointed because it only prepares you for better opportunities.”

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