The paramount ruler of Ikorodu West LCDA, Oba (Engr) Basiru Aremu Sotonwa, FNSE has endorsed the 50th Birthday Autobiography book, ‘From Dreams to Reality’, authored by veteran multimedia community journalist, Om’oba ‘Peju Akinyemi who is the Founder / CEO, Ikorodu Oga Radio.
Oba Sotonwa gave the endorsement at a private book launch event he hosted, in honour of the author, who he described as a great son and partners-in-progress in the development of Ipakodo community.
The private book launch was part of activities lined up for the official foundation-laying ceremony of the new ultra-modern Sekumade Palace on Friday.
The book was originally unveiled during the 50th Birthday Commemorative Lecture and Book Launch organized by the Media icon in November, 2024.
Oba Sotonwa also graced the event as one of the royal fathers at the 2-in-1 commemorative birthday celebration.
In his brief remarks at the private book launch he organized in honour of Om’oba ‘Peju Akinyemi at his Palace, Oba Sotonwa commended the author for sharing his personal life experiences in the book, this providing great inspiration for his readers.
The revered monarch, announced to the chagrin of his chiefs and other important dignitaries at the event that, he has personally read the book and had gleaned tremendous wisdom and insights from the author, thus recommending it for parents and guardians to get copies for their children.
‘Peju’s book serves as a great inspiration for young people, particularly those who are presently in secondary school or those seeking admission into the University’.
‘Here is a man who has gone through a lot in life, with many trials and struggles, up to the point of considering suicide. Today, he is an accomplished journalist. But, he didn’t get there by sheer luck, but by a dint of hardwork, resilience and determination’.
Oba Sotonwa therefore urged his Chiefs, Princes and other stakeholders at the event to buy copies of the book and encourage their wards to read it.
Speaking further, Oba Sotonwa lamented the situation where young students are discouraged by their academic challenges, up to the point of being thrown into depression and suicide, noting that experiences shared in ‘Peju Akinyemi’s book would assist younger ones in effectively navigating this challenging phase of their lives.
The event was graced by the Executive Secretary of Ikorodu Division Peace Initiative IDPIL, Otunba Ganiyu Olusegun Abiru, Lisa of Ipakodo, High Chief Oladayo Shotomiwa, Bobaselu of Ipakodo, Oloye Oye Solebo and Chairman of IDRDG, Arc. Otunba Taiwo Akintunde Kara.
Other important guests at the event were, President, TAO Foundation, Mrs Olubunmi Tajudeen Odofin and Chairman, Ipakodo Development Association (IDA), Prince Olasunkanmi Aremu-Ade Shotonwa and executive members or the IDA.
Retinue of Baales across Ikorodu West LCDA, led by Chief Joseph Olatunji Aluko, Araba of Ipakodo, Chief Atunfagbon, Erelu of Ipakodo, Chief Temitayo Atunfagbon and many other traditional and honourarry chiefs.
