Renowned cleric and Chairman, Oyo Metropolitan Development Association, Archbishop Emeritus Ayo Ladigbolu, has eulogised the late Otun of Oyo and former Nigerian Ambassador to Congo, Chief Moses Oyedele Ogunmola, as Ladigbolu Grammar School, Oyo, marked its 60th anniversary.
Speaking during the event, Ladigbolu praised Ogunmola’s vision in establishing the school in 1965, describing him as a trailblazer whose contributions to education transformed the Oyo community.
The milestone celebration, which featured a mix of academic, cultural, and sporting activities, included a public lecture delivered by legal luminary Femi Falana, SAN, and a keynote address by former presidential aide, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, who called for proactive leadership from the new Alaafin of Oyo.
The highlight of the event was the commissioning of landmark projects, including a reconstructed school gate, which was sponsored by the children of the late Ogunmola to honour his legacy and a new school road network constructed by the old students.
Representing Governor Seyi Makinde at the ceremony was the permanent secretary and Inspector General of Education in the state, Mrs Maria Karunwi.
Speaking on behalf of both the governor and the Commissioner for Education, Science, and Technology, she commended the alumni and stakeholders for their dedication to the founder’s ideals and their contributions to the school’s development.
The festivities also included a novelty football match, drawing alumni and students together in a spirit of camaraderie, and a reunion ceremony where Chief Ogunmola was posthumously honoured by the Old Students Association.
Archbishop Ladigbolu, who served as Father of the Day and Chairman of the project inauguration ceremony, expressed pride in the school’s achievements over the past six decades, urging the stakeholders to sustain the vision of its late founder.
The event concluded with heartfelt tributes, showcasing the enduring legacy of Chief Ogunmola and the transformative impact of Ladigbolu Grammar School on education in Oyo State.
