Bola Ige Gave Me Courage to Move On: Dare Babarinsa Reflects at 70th Birthday and Chieftaincy Installation

.....Bobagunwa, a title reserved for valiant communicators and cultural ambassadors 

At his 70th birthday celebration and installation as the Bobagunwa of Okemesi-Ekiti, veteran journalist and media icon, Chief Dare Babarinsa, gave a moving reflection on grief, legacy, and the enduring influence of Nigeria’s greatest statesmen. Held in the historic town of Okemesi-Ekiti, the event brought together dignitaries and admirers to honour a man whose pen has shaped decades of national dialogue.

Babarinsa, speaking to a crowd of well-wishers, recalled the moment he lost his wife and how a profound encounter with late Chief Bola Ige rekindled his strength.

Remembering Bola Ige’s courage and legacy gave me strength to move on,” he said. “He inspired me to stay true to the values I hold dear.”

Babarinsa, who has spent over four decades in journalism, also credited his late father for grounding his sense of purpose in the profession.

“My father once told me, ‘when you're sent on an assignment, you cannot run away from your calling.’ That shaped my view of journalism—not as a job, but as my cross to bear. I carried it with dignity.”

A Spirit Without Boundaries

The celebration was not just about accolades but also legacy. The Bobagunwa, a title reserved for valiant communicators and cultural ambassadors, spoke passionately about the town of his birth and the responsibility of its sons and daughters.

 “The spirit, as Baba Awolowo taught us, has no boundaries. Our forefathers founded this town with vision and sacrifice. I hope the new generation will plant trees—literally and metaphorically—and make Okemesi more civilized, more progressive.”

His remarks were greeted with thunderous applause from a crowd that included Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji; Chief Bisi Akande; Gen. Abiodun Ishola (rtd.); and Oba Abolarinwa Adedokun, the Orangun of Ila, among other dignitaries.

Held at the palace and later at Saint Michael’s Anglican Church, the celebration fused tradition, thanksgiving, and intellectual reflection—a fitting tribute to a man who has consistently spoken truth to power.

A Legacy Rooted in Service

From co-founding TELL Magazine to authoring historical works and leading Yoruba intellectual movements, Babarinsa remains a beacon in Nigerian journalism and public thought. His chieftaincy installation only solidifies what many already know: that his story is interwoven with the story of Nigeria itself.