By Ayomide Otitoju
All roads led to Ile-Ife as dignitaries, family members, and well-wishers from across Nigeria and beyond gathered to honor the life and legacy of Late Pa Anthony Oluwadaisi Akinwuntan, the Baale Orunto Adogodo Obalufe Royal Court of the Source. The requiem mass and reception, hosted by his son, Prince Patrick Akinwuntan, former Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria and Adjunct Faculty at the Lagos Business School, paid tribute to the esteemed patriarch, who passed away at the age of 86.
The solemn event celebrated Pa Akinwuntan’s remarkable contributions to education, faith, and community development. Attendees included prominent Obas and chiefs from Ile-Ife, Ondo, Ekiti, Ejuku, and New Bussa, alongside religious leaders led by the Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Gabriel Abegurin, and the Catholic Bishop of Osogbo Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. John Oyejola. Over 46 Catholic priests, members of the Knights and Ladies of St. Mulumba, and pastoral council members, led by Baba Ijo Chief Olasoji, were also present.
Speaking on behalf of the family, a representative expressed deep gratitude to all attendees for their unwavering support. Special recognition was given to Baba Lawrence Akinwuntan, his wife Madam Michael Shaanu Akinwuntan, and members of the Orunto Adogodo Obalufe Royal Court for their lasting contributions.
The ceremony underscored Pa Akinwuntan’s unwavering commitment to family values, with speakers highlighting his principle of ‘one man, one wife,’ a legacy embraced by his children. His emphasis on unity was evident in the family’s rejection of traditional in-law distinctions, instead fostering a sense of collective belonging within the Akinwuntan dynasty. The service was enriched by the choirs of St. S.S. Peter and Paul Catholic Pro Cathedral, Lagere, Ile-Ife, and St. Agnes Musical Society, Maryland, Lagos.
A life of resilience and excellence marked Pa Akinwuntan’s journey. Despite losing his father at a young age, he rose to become a respected teacher, entrepreneur, and mentor. Revered as ‘the teacher’s teacher’ in New Bussa, he was a dedicated educator who played a pivotal role in shaping young minds. Beyond academics, he excelled as a sports coach, a FIFA-graded referee, and a Red Cross first aider. Among his notable mentees were Olympic sprinter Olapade Adenekan and backstroke swimming medalist Toyin Oyewole from the Nigerian National Games.
His son, Prof. Emmanuel Akinwuntan, Dean of the School of Physical Sciences at Kansas University, USA, described him as a man of boundless energy and unwavering principles. “My father was a lover of people, education, and faith. He lived by these values until his last breath,” he said. Prof. Akinwuntan emphasized his father’s selflessness, recalling how he raised his siblings and later his own children after the passing of their mother 32 years ago.
“He was a class teacher, but he was bigger than life,” Prof. Akinwuntan added. “He was a mentor, a farmer, a football coach, and a community leader. He impacted the lives of many, ensuring they had access to education and discipline.”
Community members also shared touching testimonies of Pa Akinwuntan’s contributions. Residents recalled his dedication to farming, selling vegetables to support university students. His influence extended beyond the South, as former students and protégés traveled from the North to pay their last respects.
Olalekan Christopher Akinwuntan, another of his sons, also paid tribute, emphasizing that his father was not just a parent but a mentor to many. “Everyone wanted more of Baba’s presence. Whether he knew you personally or not, he made sure you were educated and disciplined,” he said. “That is why you hear so many testimonies about him. He was a superstar, my mentor anytime, anywhere.”
Beyond education, Pa Akinwuntan was deeply involved in agriculture, sports, and community building. He cultivated farmland that provided food for many, including students in Ife. “Baba was everywhere,” Lekan added. “I can’t even tell where he got all his strength from. We just thank God for his life and for making him our father.
Even in retirement, Pa Akinwuntan remained a respected figure, with his influence spanning different regions. His former pupils traveled long distances to honor him, a testament to the deep respect he commanded.
The memorial service concluded with prayers for unity within the Akinwuntan family and a reaffirmation of the values he upheld throughout his life. Described as a visionary, a fighter for justice, and a deeply spiritual man, Pa Akinwuntan’s legacy remains an inspiration to all who knew him.
One mourner summed it up: “If Nigeria had more men like him, this country would be
unstoppable.”
