Yemi Olajutemu
Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State
A political leader and grassroots mobiliser in Ekiti State, Hon Ehinafe Odunayo Bola, popularly known as EOB, is set to mark his 50th birthday with a series of events aimed at celebrating leadership, service, and sustained community impact across the state.
The golden jubilee celebration, which will hold over two days in Ado Ekiti and Are Ekiti, is being described by associates as a significant milestone that reflects a life devoted to public service, political mobilisation, and consistent engagement with grassroots communities. Political stakeholders, community leaders, associates, and well wishers from within and outside Ekiti State are expected to attend the events.
Activities marking the celebration will commence on Saturday, January 10, 2026, with the launch of a book titled “Loyalty and Betrayal: The Power Struggle in Nigerian Politics”, scheduled to take place at the Nigeria Union of Journalists Hall, Old Governor’s Office, Ado Ekiti, with proceedings expected to begin at noon.
The book launch is expected to introduce a fresh layer of conversation into Nigeria’s political discourse, as the publication examines the themes of loyalty, trust, power relations, and ethical leadership within the country’s political space. The book offers a detailed exploration of how political relationships are formed, sustained, and sometimes undermined, while also interrogating the impact of these dynamics on governance and public confidence.
According to organisers, the book is positioned as both an intellectual contribution and a reflective piece, particularly at a time when Nigeria continues to navigate governance reforms, political realignments, and rising public demand for accountability. It is expected to resonate with political leaders, academics, media professionals, and citizens who are actively engaged in discussions around democratic development.
The launch will also feature an interactive discussion forum where participants will engage on issues of sustainable leadership, political ethics, and integrity in public life. Resource persons are expected to offer perspectives on the relevance of loyalty and accountability in strengthening democratic institutions and fostering public trust in leadership.
Hon Ehinafe Odunayo Bola, who is closely associated with the book project, described the launch as more than a ceremonial activity, noting that it represents a call for renewed commitment to integrity and responsible leadership within Nigeria’s political system. He expressed optimism that the ideas contained in the book would stimulate meaningful conversations and contribute to a healthier political culture.
The celebration will continue on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with a thanksgiving church service scheduled to hold at St Patrick Catholic Church in Are Ekiti by 9 am. The service will focus on prayers of gratitude for the celebrant’s life, health, and years of political engagement, while also reflecting on his journey and contributions to community development.
Immediately after the church service, a reception will take place at Fehintola Event Hall in Are Ekiti, where guests will gather in a relaxed atmosphere to further celebrate the milestone. Organisers have announced a colour code of white, blue, and gold, symbolising peace, loyalty, and excellence, values widely associated with the celebrant’s public life.
Hon Ehinafe Odunayo Bola is widely regarded by his supporters as a political figure whose influence is rooted in consistent grassroots mobilisation and loyalty to party structures. Many describe his 50th birthday not merely as a personal celebration but as a moment to acknowledge years of dedication to public causes and community advancement.
Close associates noted that the events were deliberately structured to reflect both the intellectual and spiritual dimensions of the celebrant’s life, combining a book launch that highlights ideas and legacy with a thanksgiving service that underscores faith, gratitude, and reflection.
The organisers have extended invitations to political leaders, traditional rulers, professionals, and members of the public to participate in what they described as a landmark celebration in the life of a man whose political and community influence continues to resonate across Ekiti State.