Odeyemi's index finger upwards, at birthday, pointing up his exceptional leadership"- Ogungbangbe . By ISAAC OLUSESI

The gesture of Chief Kunle Odeyemi's upward- left index finger, pointing confidently, to his long-standing presence in exceptional leadership, vision and passion in the politics of Osun State, had not too long ago, inspired trust and confidence in the government and governance of his All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state on the path of legitimacy and stability, and he has continued through now, to shape the dynamics of internal democracy of the party, potentially on the winning tracks in the elections ahead.

Dr Thomas Olaleye Ogungbangbe dropped this, apparently on the occasion of the birthday of the senior statesman, Odeyemi, described further as one who possesses a strong set of principles and ethics that guides his behaviours and relationships, with profound impact in politics, economy and society.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer CEO CITA ENERGIES and politician of the APC extraction, from Osun East Senatorial District, disclosed that Odeyemi has always advocated a balance between the politics experience of the elderly and younger generations by harnessing the strength of both the elderly and young politicians, to encourage youths to engage in politics and participate in democratic process, and create a more vibrant and representative democracy.

"I know Elder, Chief Kunle Odeyemi is a seasoned mentor and advisor to our party in the state, and I also know that his invaluable insights and meaningful guidance have always aligned with the goals of the party in navigating complex situations, offering coping strategies for effective resolution and inspire the engagement of party stakeholders to develop confidence in the choices on diverse matters, staring in the eye.

"And at political meetings, even in his Ilesa metropolis, he's reputed to encourage critical thinking and problem solving analysis of every political issues, and he fosters understanding and acceptance of diverse perspectives," said, Ogungbangbe, the scion of Ajagbusi Ekun Dynasty of Iloko Ijesa in Oriade local government council area of the state.

Odeyemi, a chartered accountant, former actor in the private sector economy, erstwhile state treasurer of Osun APC, and church patron today, has also, always demonstrated generative values beyond politics, and still playing crucial role in shaping the fabrics of the society. His influential personal capacity has always brought about changes, beneficial to the greater good.

Ogungbangbe, in respect and reverence, celebrates the elderly politician's life and service, and prayed the _birthday boy_ through happiest years ahead.

 *OLUSESI writes via* isaacolusesi@gmail.com