By; Bayo Akamo, Ibadan.
Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo on Thursday advised Nigerians to take good care of their parents and loved ones at old age.
Chief Obasanjo gave the advice in Ibadan during a private visit to the 92-year-old widow of an erstwhile Nigerian representative at the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), late High Chief Gabriel Akin-Deko, Chief (Mrs) Ebun Akin-Deko.
The former President who was accompanied by some of his friends including Otunba Oyewole Fasawe and Chief Idowu Akanle arrived the Ibikunle Avenue, Bodija, Ibadan residence of the Akin-Deko and was swiftly ushered into the inner chambers of the house by the eldest son who is also a political stalwart, Chief Akintayo Akin-Deko.
During the visit which lasted about 15 minutes, Chief Obasanjo lauded the good health in longevity being enjoyed by Chief (Mrs) Ebun Akin-Deko, emphasizing the need for all and sundry to take good care of their parents and loved ones at old age.
Speaking with newsmen, the eldest son of the Late High Chief Gabriel Akin Deko, Chief Akintayo Akin-Deko said, “this is just one of the occasions that he has an opportunity to come and see Mama physically while she is still alive and mentally alert. And we thank God for that.
“They discussed simply family issues. He asked about her welfare. He asked about our Kabiyesi, the Owa of Idanre. He also asked how Mama is coping. And thank God, he saw that Mama is well looked after. And he thanked us for that.”
Chief Akin Deko added “Baba Obasanjo and our own father were very good friends, but at a distance. Baba Obasanjo was President, my own father was a local community leader; they however met infrequently. But ever since that unfortunate accident about 13 years ago, Baba Obasanjo has never been far from the family and Mama because he realizes the extent of a loss for such a woman”.
Chief (Mrs) Ebun Akin-Deko is the mother of some friends of Dr. Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of the ex-President, that lost their lives in a ghastly auto crash involving Iyabo Obasanjo’s convoy about thirteen years ago.
