Students' Union, Obafemi Awolowo University
Office of the Public Relations Officer
DATE: March 26th, 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Yinka Odumakin Inter faculty Debate and Public Lecture [Maiden Edition]: Honoring the Legacy of a Great Man and Activist
The Students' Union, Obafemi Awolowo University, is proud to announce the Yinka Odumakin Interfaculty Debate and Public Lecture, themed Celebrating, the legacy, life and times of Comrade Yinka Odumakin. This event, championed by the Office of the Public Relations Officer, Omisore Elijah O, aims to commemorate the life and legacy of Yinka Odumakin, a renowned nationalist, activist, and highly patriotic leader.
Yinka Odumakin's legacy is marked by his unwavering dedication to activism and social justice. As the National Publicity Secretary for Afenifere, he tirelessly advocated for the rights and welfare of the Yoruba people, leaving an indelible mark on Nigerian politics. Additionally, his role as the spokesperson for Former President Buhari during his presidential campaign in 2011 under the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) demonstrated his commitment to effecting positive change through political engagement.
A Champion of Social Justice, even during his student days, Yinka Odumakin exemplified his commitment to activism and journalism. Serving as the Public Relations Officer for the Students' Union, he fearlessly championed the causes of his fellow students, paving the way for his future endeavours as a social advocate. His dedication to advancing social justice persisted beyond his studentship, as he continued to be a vocal advocate for marginalized communities throughout his life.
The Yinka Odumakin Interfaculty Debate and Public Lecture serves several objectives:
- To honour and celebrate the life and death of the iconic activist, Yinka Odumakin, affectionately known as "the Last Samurai."
- To recognize and celebrate the achievements of past leaders of the Great Ife Students’ Union, esteemed lecturers, and alumni who have excelled in activism, media, journalism, academics, governance, politics, entertainment, business, entrepreneurship, etc.
- To honour distinguished personalities beyond the Great Ife Students Union who have contributed significantly to activism, media, journalism, and oratory prowess, shaping their communities and the world at large.
- To celebrate the enduring impact of activism, media, journalism, and oratory prowess in society and promote its continuity.
- To encourage the nurturing of an environment that fosters activism, media, journalism, and oratory prowess among students, ensuring the legacy of individuals like Yinka Odumakin lives on in future generations.
The event is scheduled for 2 days. 2nd and 3rd of April 2024.
Day 1: The Inter-faculty will be held at the Ken Saro Wiwa Students' Union Building by 9 am prompt.
Day 2: The Public lecture will be held at Oduduwa Hall Obafemi Awolowo University Ile-Ife, from 10 am - 1 pm.
The public lecture will be graced with the presence of the following reputable dignitaries.
CHAIRMAN OF THE EVENT: Pa Ayo Adebanjo, Afenifere Leader.
GUEST SPEAKER: Mr. Femi Falana SAN.
Special GUEST OF HONOUR: Dr. Joe Okei Odumakin.
ROYAL GUEST OF HONOUR: Oba Fola Odidiomo, The Olu of Igbokoda.
HOST: Great IFE Students' Union
CHIEF HOST: Professor Adebayo Simeon Bamire. Obafemi Awolowo University Vice-Chancellor.
Distinguished Guests:
Hon. Wole Jimi-Bada
Attorney General Osun State
Mr Lasisi Olagunju
Dr. Festus Adebayo
Deans and HODs of the university
Join us in Celebrating the laudable life and legacy of an enigmatic icon. The Yinka Odumakin Interfaculty Debate promises to be an enlightening and inspiring event, bringing together students, faculty, alumni, and distinguished guests to honour the life and contributions of a true champion of social justice. We invite everyone to join us as we celebrate Yinka Odumakin's legacy and commit to carrying forward his vision of a more just and equitable society.
For inquiries and participation details, please contact the Office of the Public Relations Officer, Omisore Elijah O via
Call: 08182868471
Email: greatifesupr@gmail.com
*Announcing*
OMISORE Elijah O.
Public Relations Officer
Students' Union, Obafemi Awolowo University