Former Osun State APC governorship aspirant and Bobajiro of Ilesa, Engr. Dideolu Falobi, has paid glowing tribute to the late Mr. Isaac Ayotunde Awobiyi, a veteran journalist and respected Ijesa son, who passed away on December 28, 2025.
In a tribute released ahead of Awobiyi’s burial, Engr. Falobi described the deceased, fondly known as Tunde Awobiyi, as a first-class gentleman whose life was marked by professionalism, mentorship, service to God, and deep commitment to Ijesaland and Nigeria.
Falobi recalled that Awobiyi was an accomplished journalist, media executive, political thinker, and devout Methodist, as well as a proud alumnus of Methodist High School, Ilesa, and the University of Lagos. He noted that Awobiyi played significant roles in journalism, alumni associations, community development, and national discourse.
According to him, their paths crossed in 2004 during efforts to rejuvenate the Old Students’ Association of Methodist High School, Ilesa (OSAMETHSI), where Awobiyi became a strong pillar, mentor, and benefactor. He said the late journalist consistently supported the association with wisdom, resources, and personal sacrifice, including hosting meetings at his residence when needed.
Falobi also highlighted Awobiyi’s contributions to major OSAMETHSI milestones, including the school’s 50th, 60th, and 65th anniversary celebrations, noting that his absence would be deeply felt as preparations were underway for the forthcoming 70th anniversary.
Beyond alumni activities, Falobi acknowledged Awobiyi’s role in the Ijesaland Development Foundation (IDF), where he chaired the Ijesaland Economic and Unity Summit held in Lagos in 2014. He said Awobiyi’s leadership and insights at the summit helped lay foundations for greater unity and economic progress in Ijesaland.
In addition, the late journalist was a key member of the Think Tank on Nigeria (TTON), an online policy and ideas forum, where Falobi said Awobiyi made impactful contributions to national conversations.
An abridged professional profile revealed that Awobiyi was a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, former Editor of the Sunday Times, and a two-term Secretary of the Guild. He began his career at The Punch as Assistant Features Editor, rose through the ranks at the Daily Times of Nigeria, and later served as General Manager of Publications. He also worked in the Lagos State Ministry of Information, founded Alausa Alert, and served as Acting Chief Press Secretary to former Lagos State Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Awobiyi is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ruth Awobiyi, a retired principal of Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba; four children; and grandchildren.
Engr. Falobi described his passing as a great loss to journalism, the church, and Ijesaland, but expressed gratitude to God for a life he said was well spent in service, integrity, and mentorship.
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