On this day, July 9, we do not just mark another turn of the calendar for Oloye Benedict Akika, the Aare Agba’Akin Ataiyese Omoluabi Oodua Agbaye, founder of the Omituntun Benedict Foundation (OBF) — we give thanks.
It is a day etched with more than candles and cake. It is a day to bow our heads in gratitude and lift our voices in praise, for Agba’Akin Akika is not just celebrating life, he is testifying to divine preservation.
I remember the late hours of September 4, 2024, when my phone buzzed with a chilling message:
“I heard that Agba’Akin was kidnapped.”
In disbelief, I responded:
“The Agba’Akin I know cannot be kidnapped.”
My conviction was not from denial, but faith — the kind of faith inspired by the life of a man who walks with boldness and serves with purpose. A man who, like Daniel in the Bible, has faced lions and returned without a scratch.
But the rumour, unfortunately, became reality. Our Daniel indeed found himself in the den — abducted and held for ten long, agonizing days. Yet, as Scripture tells us, the God who shuts the lions’ mouths is still in the business of deliverance. The same God who heard the prayers of the many whom Agba’Akin has helped, is helping, or will yet help — answered again.
He returned, not broken, not bitter — but smiling, grateful, and even more resolved in his mission to serve. This is no ordinary man. This is Agba’Akin Benedict Akika — the Agbaakin of Olorunda-Abaa, Mayegun of Akoboland, Grand Life Patron of the Nigerian Beautician/Hairdresser Association, and Pathfinder of the Ibadan Vanguard Sisters (IVS) under the CCII.
He has worn many caps — philanthropist, community leader, peace ambassador — and through it all, he has remained unwavering, selfless, and approachable. His ordeal would have turned many cold, resentful, or withdrawn. But not Agba’Akin. He continues to give. He continues to serve.
And so, as we mark July 9, we mark more than a birthday. We mark survival. We mark courage. We mark purpose. We mark thanksgiving.
For his family, friends, supporters, the Omituntun Benedict Forum, and the Foundation — today is not just about age. It is about grace.
Happy Birthday, Agba’Akin Akika. May your days continue to shine with the light of divine protection, and may your legacy grow even brighter.
Indeed, this is more of a thanksgiving than a celebration.
Olusegun C. A. Taiwo (OCAT)
Secretary, Omituntun Benedict Foundation (OBF)