– Adejola Adeyemi Crown
ABEOKUTA – When Abiodun Lasile, founder of the SixthSense Initiative, welcomed participants to his Summer Children Reading Camp at Wooten Hall, Baptist Girls Grammar School, many couldn’t help but do a double take. His striking resemblance to Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka left many in awe, with some even mistaking him for the renowned professor.
But it was a lighthearted exchange between Lasile and Dr. Olaokun Soyinka, the professor’s son, that stole the show. Olaokun jokingly remarked that Lasile was the real Professor Soyinka, prompting Lasile to retort that Olaokun was the true lookalike.
The banter left the audience in stitches, but it also highlighted the deep admiration for Professor Soyinka’s legacy. As one observer noted, “Lasile’s resemblance to Professor Soyinka is uncanny, and it’s clear that he’s a fan. He even dresses like him and carries himself with the same confidence.”
The moment was a heartwarming reminder that even in a casual setting, the power of connection and shared values can bring people together. For Lasile, hosting the Summer Children Reading Camp was a labour of love, and meeting Olaokun was a highlight. “I’ve always admired Professor Soyinka’s work and legacy,” he said. “To be mistaken for him is an honour, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to meet his son and learn from him.”
The event was also a celebration of two significant milestones: the 90th birthday of Professor Wole Soyinka (affectionately known as Kongi) and the 60th birthday celebration of Olowu of Owu kingdom, Oba Prof Saka Matemilola. The double celebration added to the joy and festivity of the occasion, with guests praising the contributions of both Professor Soyinka and Oba Matemilola to Nigerian society.
Dr. Olaokun Soyinka, who was also a guest speaker at the event, praised Lasile’s humility and passion for learning. “It’s not every day you meet someone who embodies the spirit of my father’s work,” he said. “Abiodun is a true admirer, and I’m glad we had the chance to connect.”
The encounter served as a testament to the enduring impact of Professor Soyinka’s work, which continues to inspire new generations of thinkers, writers, and leaders. As the Summer Reading Camp came to a close, participants left with a renewed sense of purpose and a reminder that legacy is not just about achievement, but also about the people we touch along the way.
But the question on everyone’s lips remains: who truly looks more like Professor Soyinka – Abiodun Lasile or Dr. Olaokun Soyinka? Is Lasile’s resemblance more than just skin-deep, or is it a testament to the power of admiration and inspiration? And what does this say about the legacy of Professor Soyinka, and the impact he continues to have on young minds? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – Abiodun Lasile has earned his place as a true Soyinka lookalike, and a champion of his legacy.
