TUKANA'S DEMISE IS THE DEEPEST CUT INTO THE SOUL OF AKURE

TUKANA'S DEMISE IS THE DEEPEST CUT INTO THE SOUL OF AKURE

Akure, the beleaguered capital city of Ondo State, found itself in the news during the first weekend of 2025. However, the messages it received were neither of celebration nor joy. Instead, they were condolences—words meant to soothe the wounded hearts of its people. Yet, given the choice, Akure would rather not have been the recipient of such sympathies. The city mourned quietly, as it has done so often before. This weekend merely reopened its deep scars, adding another name to its ever-growing list of illustrious sons lost in their prime.

To understand the weight of this moment, we must revisit history. In the mid-1970s, thirteen of Akure’s wealthiest young men perished in a tragic auto crash on their way to Lagos to purchase goods. Earlier, in 1972, the city lost its most talented musician, Wale Glorious, who died suddenly at the tender age of 29.

Eleven years later, in 1983, Akure experienced a tempestuous day of tragedy when its most promising politicians were brutally eliminated during the aftermath of an election dispute. The city witnessed a pogrom that claimed countless lives. Just days earlier, eleven young traders had died in a ghastly motor accident along Ogbese Road.

The 1990s brought more grief. Barrister Alex Adedipe, one of the most vibrant young voices of his time, was lost in an auto crash. Not long after, Olu Olatubosun, Wale Glorious’s successor and an equally gifted musician, died in a similar manner on his way to Ondo.

Fast forward forty years from the gruesome events of 1983, the city mourned once again with the mysterious death of its beloved politician, Adedayo Omolafe, fondly known as “Expensive.” Now, the latest tragedy strikes with the untimely death of Tayo Oluwatuyi, also known as Tukana—a bright star extinguished far too soon.

The condolences pouring in were directed at the elites, yet they do little to console the larger community of Tukana's admirers. His loss is deeply felt by many who remember him as a quintessential Omoluabi. As a Commissioner under Dr. Mimiko’s administration, Tukana empowered many by distributing sewing machines, motorcycles, and cars. Some of these vehicles, converted to taxis, were still operational as recently as last year.

In 2019, when Adedayo Omolafe secured the PDP ticket for the House of Representatives, some members of the opposing APC sought to field a formidable contender against him. They found an answer in Tukana. They approached him with offer, but he declined, saying, "Okan le emi ati Expe. Meyo ba dije ibo" (Expensive and I are one. I cannot contest against him).

Tukana’s humility was unmatched. Even as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), he would prostrate fully to greet his aunt. He was one of the rare politicians who consistently answered phone calls and was approachable to all, regardless of social standing. A trained accountant, Tukana was known for his philanthropy and charity. Many families relied on him for monthly school fees.

Above all, he was reserved and unassuming. Unlike many of his peers, Tukana refrained from unnecessary verbosity. He kept his ideas, feelings, and opinions private, maintaining his calm even in the face of provocation. Where others sought controversy for fame, Tukana embraced exemplary character to earn his place in the hearts of many. His background, as the son of Chief Bankole Oluwatuyi—the late Prime Minister of Akure—undoubtedly shaped his demeanor. Despite his local focus, his influence extended far beyond Ondo State.                               In the all-conquering APC, he had a promising future to attain higher heights.

His sudden death leaves an indelible void. While speculation may abound regarding the cause of his demise, we are reminded by Job 14:5 (NIV): “A person’s days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits he cannot exceed.” 

Nevertheless, Akure must take proactive spiritual steps to protect its sons and daughters. Other towns safeguard their promising figures; why should Akure be an exception? If a curse lingers from the city’s foundation, it must be addressed and reversed swiftly. Tukana’s death must be the final chapter in this tragic narrative. The city has endured enough heartbreak.