Youths Flood Ondo City to Honour Akinlaja’s Birthday, Hail Him as Visionary Leader and True Democrat
Ondo City came alive on Monday, June 1, 2026, as a sea of jubilant youths converged on Adoc Events Centre and the residence of Hon. Joseph Iranola Akinlaja, former representative of Ondo East and West Federal Constituency, to celebrate his birthday.
Under the banner of the End Miscreants Movement, the gathering was more than a festivity—it was a tribute to Akinlaja’s enduring legacy and his contributions to the socio-economic growth of Ondo.
The youths described the septuagenarian and former General Secretary of NUPENG as a peace-loving icon, a consummate democrat, and a leader committed to youth empowerment, human capital development, and sustainable innovation.
They emphasized that the “End Miscreants Movement” reflects Akinlaja’s role as a stabilizing force whose interventions have curbed cultism, violent clashes, land grabbing, and other social vices in the community.
The event drew prominent figures, including former Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, who praised Akinlaja as a symbol of peace, unity, and progress. Mimiko lauded his maturity and sacrifice in advancing excellence.
Other dignitaries present were Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Olamide Adesanmi Oladiji, Hon. Biola Makinde, Hon. Moyinoluwa Ogunwunmiju, and Hon. Abiola Oladapo, Akin Akinbobola, Eni Akinshola, editor in chief and publisher of Veracity Desk (veracitydesk.com), Emmanuel Ajibulu etc, all of whom extolled Akinlaja’s virtues.
The Chairman of Lagos Zone of Petroleum Tanker Drivers (PTD) Branch of NUPENG, Comrade Gbolahan Saheed Adigun who was unavoidably absent was represented by Israel Okougbo, Comrade Samuel Owolabi, Adekunle Akinlaja and Comrade Timothy Iseoluwa.
The atmosphere was electrified by live music from five different professional musicians, with youths chanting solidarity slogans and dancing in contagious but peaceful jubilation.
In his remarks, Akinlaja thanked the youths for their support, urging them to prepare for a prosperous future. He highlighted the achievements of Dr. Mimiko (fondly called Iroko), noting his enduring legacies in governance and innovation.
“Our youths must remain steadfast as ambassadors of excellence, shaping a brighter future for Nigeria,” Akinlaja declared, challenging them to actively participate in the electoral process to ensure credible and peaceful elections.
Speaking on behalf of the youths, Aseyege Ayoola, popularly known as Spender, hailed Akinlaja as a unifying figure whose temperament and experience are vital for Nigeria’s progress.
He commended fellow youths for making the event successful and acknowledged contributors such as Kayode Folajogun, Adijath Wonuola, Akin Fadayomi, Lawrence Adefolaju, Lukas Famakinwa, and Akinpelumi.
