Professor P. O Olatunji

My family came to know the Olatunjis in the late ‘80’s. We were young lecturers at the University of Ilorin while they were at the University Teaching Hospital and what later became the Unilorin College of Medicine. We met in the different Christian gatherings and several other situations as we became family friends. It never occurred to me at any moment in time that Dr Olatunji was a proper ‘egbon’ to me as his is the same age as very revered older brothers and sisters in my family. We related in such natural ways that completely eliminated age differences, and knowing our Yoruba culture, all thanks to his largeness of heart!

The Hematology that Dr Olatunji practiced was properly a Community Service. He mixed this with his calling as an active Christian and worked assiduously as the Doctor on duty in many of the issues that afflicted us in our large Christian fellowship. This continued even when they moved to Sagamu. I still remember the early Saturday morning that I travelled with my late wife to meet them on a major health issue. It was NOT about blood. Yet, we had the consolation of getting the assuring voice of experts as well as great friends.

Out of the Unilorin ASUU saga, the Olatunjis remained a sweet couple and an esteemed family. Their lives confirmed the saying that “God causes all things to work together for the good of those that love him”.

So my dear friend and brother, I don’t know where you got the so many years ahead of me and are now retiring. Yet, I commend you, your lovely wife, great children and grandchildren to the care of our God: As your days are, so shall your strength be! Amen! Omotayo Fakinlede Professor of Engineering, University of Lagos.