By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Iseyin — The ancient town of Iseyin in Oyo State was aglow on Saturday as prominent political leaders, Islamic clerics and community stakeholders converged to celebrate the 80th birthday of elder statesman and respected community figure, Alhaji Chief Yunus Omokunmi Mustapha.
Among the dignitaries at the well-attended ceremony was the leading governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, who joined family members, traditional leaders and residents to honour the octogenarian at his residence on February 14, 2026.
Guests were warmly received on arrival and ushered to their seats as Islamic clerics opened proceedings with a solemn du’a led by the Chief Imam, setting a spiritual tone for the event. This was followed by the introduction of dignitaries and a recitation from the Holy Qur’an, after which the purpose of the gathering and a thanksgiving address were delivered by members of the Mustapha family.
In his remarks, Ajadi described the celebrant as “a symbol of integrity, patience and enduring service to humanity,” noting that reaching 80 years “is not just a blessing but a testament to a life lived with purpose and fear of God.”
“Baba Mustapha represents the values our society urgently needs today — humility, community service and unwavering faith,” Ajadi said. “I am personally inspired by his life, and I pray that Almighty Allah grants him more years in good health and peace.”
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A major highlight of the programme was the Islamic lecture delivered by Fadeelat Sheikh Buhari Musa, Ajikobi Aladabiy Asadu Dahawa, who spoke extensively on gratitude, legacy and the responsibilities of elders in guiding younger generations.
“When Allah blesses a person with long life, it comes with responsibility,” the cleric said. “At 80, Baba Mustapha stands as a moral compass for his family and community, and such lives must be celebrated while they are still with us.”
A special prayer session led by the League of Imams followed, focusing on continued good health, strength, divine protection and peace for the celebrant, as well as blessings upon his children, grandchildren and descendants.
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The biography of Alhaji Chief Yunus Omokunmi Mustapha was later unveiled by Ahmed Mustapha, detailing his life journey, contributions to community development and commitment to Islamic values. Goodwill messages were also delivered by representatives of the Imams and community leaders, who extolled the celebrant’s generosity, wisdom and peaceful disposition.
The Oyo State Government also joined in the celebration, with goodwill messages conveyed on behalf of Governor Oluwaseyi Abiodun Makinde, represented by the Deputy Governor, Abdulraheem Adebayo Lawal.
“His Excellency sends warm congratulations to Baba Mustapha on this remarkable milestone,” Lawal said. “The Governor prays that Almighty Allah continues to uphold him as a pillar of strength and wisdom in Iseyin and Oyo State at large.”
The event climaxed with the cutting of the birthday cake and a photo session with the celebrant, family members and guests, before a closing thanksgiving du’a was offered. A senior member of the Mustapha family delivered the vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to all attendees for honouring their patriarch.
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The celebration, marked by prayers, reflections and goodwill, underscored the deep respect Alhaji Chief Yunus Omokunmi Mustapha commands within and beyond Iseyin, as well as the enduring cultural and spiritual values he represents at 80.
