Newton Anthony
IT was a joyous atmosphere as Nigerians from all walks of life Saturday 29th March 2025 converged on the ancient city of Ibadanland to felicitate with Baale of Ekotedo, Elder (Dr) Taye Ayorinde JP and his family in acknowledgement of God’s goodness and faithfulness in his life as he turned 90 years old on Planet Earth.
The event was laced with sporting and games activities, book lunch, free healthcare services and conferment of chieftaincy titles. 
At the thanksgiving and reception programme held at Kola Daisi Civic Centre, Idi-Ape, Ibadan, Oyo State, which featured the United Nations Rescue Team parade, and cultural dance, the celebrant, Elder Ayorinde J P was full of appreciation and gratitude, even as he danced with friends and family members.
In his remarks, Ashiwaju Balogun of Ekotedo, Chief Taofeek Dada Olaniyan, described the celebrant as an icon of hope to many.
“Today marks a significant milestone in your life, a testament to your remarkable journey and the profound impact you have had on the lives of those around you. As you celebrate this special day, we honour your unwavering dedication, selflessness, and commitment to the welfare of your community.
“Life is not about age, but about the life in your years. As you celebrate your 90th birthday, we recognise that your life has been a blessing to countless individuals, and your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Your tireless efforts at promoting education, health, and social welfare have transformed the Ekotedo Community in Ibadan, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of its residents. Your contributions have not only improved the lives of those in Ekotedo but have also set a shining example for others to follow. 
“On this special day, my wife, I and the entire Chiefs of Ekotedo Community wish you joy, love, and celebration . May you live all the days of your life”. Olaniyan concluded.
In her statement, Erelu Tunwase of Oderemo, Hon. Lola Ayorinde, described the celebrant as Orisa (god) going by the story of his birth and the manner he operates as a being. She also described the 90-year journey as a story of strength, wisdom, and resilience.
Elder Ayorinde JP was born on 29th March 1935 in the dynasty family of High Chief John Adeyemi, late Ashipa Olubadan of Ibadanland. His father was not only a Yoruba agriculturist and propagator of cocoa plantation, but equally a Yoruba historical, traditional and cultural Icon of his time.
Elder Ayorinde JP became the Baale (otherwise known in English as the Duke of Ekotedo) community, Ibadan in Oyo State on the 15th of April, 1994 and thereafter Chairman of Ekotedo Community Development Association. A founding member of the Yoruba Council Of Elders, an awardee of the Grand Order of Peace Pursuit by International Fellowship of Peace Pursuit, Netherlands following the mediatory role he played in resolving the imbroglio between Seriki Sasa and Oba Sabo.
Pa Ayorinde whilst working with the Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) produced and directed programmes for both Muslims and Christians that made him read both the Bible and the Quran, News, and Current Affairs programmes. He was the Head of the Music and Drama Department.
At the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), he brought into public awareness Operations Feed the Nation and Let’s Go Farming programmes of the then federal government. He initiated Sign Language for the Deaf and Hard Hearing on Television in Nigeria.
Elder Ayorinde was the Chairman of the Onireke High School Governing Board, the Founder/ Chairman of the Council of all Traditional Baales in Ibadanland, and later became the BoT Chairman. He is presently the chairman of the Yoruba World Assembly.
Several Nigerians however, graced the event especially members of the Christ Anglican Church, Mapo, Ibadan, top government functionaries, business tycoons, and other dignitaries.
Eighteen-Eleven Media