Kunle Adelabu
It was an all-white birthday thanksgiving/party as the President, Ikorodu Heroes (I – Heroes), Mr Abolaji Oluwaseun Elesho clocked 40 in grand style on Saturday, December 18, 2021, as parents, family members, eminent personalities, friends and well-wishers turned up to share the joy of the day with him.
At the exclusive birthday party held at the Jubilee Estate Playground, along Ikorodu – Shagamu road, were the celebrant’s parents, Sir (Otunba) Ayodele Elesho, a former Commissioner for Information, Lagos State and the Agbaakin of Ikorodu Kingdom and wife, Chief (Mrs) Elesho and Rep. Babajimi Benson, Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Defense.
While the celebrant and his guests were looking resplendent in their various white attires of different styles, part of the playground where the memorable celebration was held was equally decorated with white materials while the floor was covered with green carpets.
Also, officials of the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) where the celebrant works were adequately represented, while members of I-Heroes, family members and friends were also present.
The celebrant, who was full of life as he danced joyfully to gospel, juju and Apepe music performances, said that he was full of thanksgiving because he was expected to have been dead some years back but that he is still alive due to the grace of God.
“I am full of thanksgiving because somebody told me that I would die at 33 years and I was actually preparing for that but here I am today”, the celebrant said.
“My parents are very supportive and they keep telling me that I will live to a ripe age. It is important that we must always find our ways to God for salvation.
“I was asked to conduct some tests when I wanted to get married which I did and I was told that I am hypertensive. It was very surprising because I did not have any worry or anything bothering me”.
The celebrant, while stating that he appreciates his wife so much because she was dutiful and prayerful, also added that young men die young because they are disconnected from their parents.
“Anyone of us that still has parents should appreciate them because they are playing important roles in our lives.
“One of the major reasons that young men die young is because the devil has made them to be disconnected from their parents.
“My parents are always ready to assist and my lovely wife is also praying and caring for me. I am very happy for today”, the young Elesho said.
Mrs Bisi Elesho, wife of the celebrant, described him as a loving and caring husband who treated her like a sister.
“He treats me like his younger sister and he’s my confidante.
“He is my success story and if not for him, I would not have been where I am today.
“He is a father, brother, lover and confidante and not just to me but also to every member of my family.
“He is very understanding and caring. I really love him and wish him many more happy years ahead. Congratulations”, Mrs Bisi Elesho prayed.
Father of the celebrant, Sir Elesho, also speaking, thanked God for the life of his son and other children.
“There have been many challenges but we thank God for His mercies”, the Agbaakin of Ikorodu Kingdom said.
Mr Shokunbi Oluwaseun, a childhood friend of the celebrant who spoke on behalf of I – Heroes, said that the bond that he shared with him has remained unbroken since their early days.
“We started together in 1983/84 during the Auntie Nursery & Primary School days. He is a brother which my mother did not give birth to”, he said of the celebrant.
“Since 1983 when we started primary school together, we have remained together. We attended the same secondary school, University and our paths also crossed where we are working today.
“I was the immediate past President of our club and when I was to hand over, it was Seun that I handed over to as President, a position that he is still occupying.
“Seun has been a wonderful person and a great guy. Congratulations and happy birthday”.
The representative of the LIRS, Mr Samson Bisiriyu, while congratulating the celebrant, also revealed that he secured his job with LIRS because of the celebrant.
“On behalf of the entire staff of the LIRS, I congratulate you and wish you many happy returns.
“If not for Seun, I would not be in the service of the LIRS today. He made it possible for me.
“He is one of the best staff that are in LIRS because of his commitment and dedication to duty.
“My prayer for you is that you will continue to grow from strength to strength and live long. Happy birthday”, he said.
Prince Omotayo Benson who spoke on behalf of the Chairman of the Ikorodu – Oga Development Association (IKODASS), described Seun as a committed young man who has brought innovation into his office as General Secretary of IKODASS.
“We thank God and are happy for you today, Seun Elesho.
“On behalf of our chairman, Mr Rotimi Erogbogbo, we wish you more happy birthday celebration and prosperous returns”.
The Eleshos, celebrant’s in-law and others also spoke glowingly about Seun Elesho when they had the microphone to make their remarks.
The celebration was, however, not all about speeches, as there were more than enough delicious delicacies and assorted drinks to go round the selected guests who all had a fun filled time at the party.
The cocktail bar stand by Lydelyte also provided guests with tasty cocktail drinks.
There were also grilled fish and pepper soup which were also served to the guests to complete the five star entertainment provided by the celebrant at the party.
