By Dupe Olaoye-Osinkolu
Today, we gather to celebrate the life of our beloved friend, colleague, and brother, Alupupu Teacher, affectionately known as Muda or Bobo B. His untimely passing has left us with memories, bitterness, and lessons that will forever resonate in our hearts.
We remember his Suzuki motorbike (reason for the nickname we gave him) of those early years, which became synonymous with his dedication to teaching and theatre-arts. Who can forget his jests and jokes, always ready to lighten the mood? His smile was contagious, and his humor, unparalleled.
Those were our start-up years under the tutelage of our most referred boss, Olatubosun Odunsi, aka Paadi Amoye. The happy days of rehearsals with our producer, Elder Femi Olajide at the Television Service of Oyo State (TSOS), which was later merged with the radio service to become Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS).
I recall our time together in the ANTP Constitution Drafting Committee in 1994. Muda’s wit and creativity kept us going through late-night meetings. When some dozed off, he’d say they were “meditating” with our theatrical ancestors. Laughter would fill the room, and we’d press on.
Muda’s commitment to TAMPAN was unwavering. As National General Secretary, he served with passion and dedication. His leadership will be deeply missed.
To his family, colleagues, and the TAMPAN community, President Bolaji Amusan, and our boss, Baba Tubosun Odunsi, all our elders, including Prince Jide Kosoko, Oga Adebayo Salami and others, I offer my heartfelt condolences. I also condole with all his colleagues and friends in the sister union, Association of Nigeria Theatre-Arts Practitioners (ANTP), under the leadership of Dr. Rasak Oyadiran. May God comfort and protect you during this difficult time.
Ayobami, like your name implied, you were always full of joy. Forever smiling and making jokes out of every situation. When you came with late Mukaila Adeniyi (Alaafin) to my wedding engagement in Lagos from Ibadan, you missed the way. There was another Ogo Oluwa street in Iyana Ipaja, and the invitation card read, Alhaji Idowu Street, off Ogo Oluwa Street, Akowonjo. You were both directed to the Ogo Oluwa Street in Iyana Ipaja. After wandering around for some time, you met someone who gave you a clear direction to the real address.
Despite looking so tired on arrival, Bobo B, you started making jest of yourself and your colleague for missing the way.
“Alaafin o, nibo niya ti njewa bo?” (Where was the source of our suffering?) Alaafin replied: “Ibadan ni. Awon Ara Eko wa f’oba le. Ogo Oluwa nihin, lohun.(From Ibadan. The Lagosians then compounded our suffering. Ogo Oluwa here and there”). Laughters.
Muda, your legacy lives on through the countless lives you touched. Your humor, kindness, and generosity will never be forgotten. May your journey beyond the clouds be filled with joy, and may your memory continue to inspire us.
Rest in peace, dear Bobo B.
May Muda’s memory be a blessing to all who knew him.
