The Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, on Sunday described the retired Anglican Bishop of Lagos West Diocese, Rt. Rev (Dr.) Peter Adebiyi, as a man of distinction, whose service to God and humanity was marked by integrity, hard work and genuine love for the people.
Fayemi, who made the remarks during a thanksgiving service marking Adebiyi’s retirement and 70th birthday at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Osi-Ekiti, said those virtues exhibited by the retired Bishop earned him the Ekiti State’s brand ambassador.
Fayemi, who also presented a Sports utility Vehicle as retirement gift to the Ekiti State born Bishop shortly after the service, said Adebiyi deserved more than a mere gift because he has consistently exemplified the values of integrity, honesty and courage for which Ekitis are known.
Bishop Adebiyi, according to the governor, always speaks truth to power.
He added that the cleric’s contributions to the development of Ekiti State and Nigeria cannot be overemphasized.
The governor urged the coming generation of youths to emulate the virtues that make the retired Bishop stand out as a true representative of the state.
In his remarks, Bishop Adebiyi expressed surprise at the unexpected gift and thanked the governor for the gesture.
He said when government recognises a citizen’s hard work, it encourages others to put in their best.
He said: “I am more than surprised at this demonstration of love.
“It is an honour indeed to be so recognised by one’s state government.
“I believe this will also encourage other citizens to put in their best.”
Other dignitaries at the thanksgiving service included a former Minister of National Planning, Chief Ayo Ogunlade; former Sports Minister, Major-General O. Olutoye (rtd); and his wife, Prof. Olutoye; the Ekiti State Commissioner for Education, Kehinde Ojo; Special Advisers to Fayemi, Bashorun Ayo Odetola and Chief Abiodun Akin-Fasae; and the Chairman Ekiti State Teaching Service Commission, Chief Bayo Adeniran.
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