Kennedy Ikantu Peretei at 60: A Life of Service and Legacy
Today, Wednesday, December 2nd, 2024, marks a remarkable milestone for Kennedy Ikantu Peretei as he turns 60—a journey defined by unwavering dedication to public service, scholarship, and community impact. Born in Dibigbini, a serene suburb of Arogbo in Ese-Odo Local Government Area of Ondo State, Peretei’s story is a testament to resilience, leadership, and an unrelenting quest for excellence.
Peretei’s early years were steeped in the vibrant culture and rich traditions of Arogbo, where he attended both primary and secondary schools. This formative foundation laid the groundwork for his academic pursuits. In 1985, he gained admission to the prestigious University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education (Chemistry). He further honed his communication skills with a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Lagos.
Peretei’s political career is one of distinction, marked by his transformative leadership as Chairman of the Interim Management Committee of Ese-Odo Local Government. His tenure left a lasting legacy with infrastructure projects that continue to serve his people: the Housing Estate at Igbekebo, health centers in Amapere and Awodikuro, and the Youth Centre in Igbobini. These projects epitomize his commitment to grassroots development and his ability to address the pressing needs of his community.
Following his tenure as local government chairman, he served as Senior Special Assistant on Parliamentary Matters to former Ondo State Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko. In this role, he played a critical part in fostering productive relationships between the executive and legislative arms of government. Today, as the State Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State, Peretei remains a staunch advocate for democracy, transparency, and good governance.
Kennedy Peretei is not only a public servant but also a prolific author and journalist. His works, including Military Adventurism in Nigerian Politics (2004), Arogbo Ijo: People and Events (1999), and the recently co-authored Edebo: The Portrait of an Uncommon Matriarch (2023), underscore his dedication to preserving history and addressing societal issues. His autobiography, A Ropewalk (2024), offers a deeply personal account of his life, struggles, and triumphs, further cementing his place as a voice of inspiration.
As the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Diplomatic Digest, Peretei has contributed significantly to journalism, providing a platform for insightful discourse on diplomacy and global affairs.
At the heart of Peretei’s success lies a strong family foundation. Happily married with children and grandchildren, he exemplifies the values of love, unity, and mentorship. His ability to balance the demands of public service with his role as a family man speaks volumes about his character and priorities.
As Kennedy Ikantu Peretei celebrates his 60th birthday, he stands as a beacon of hope and progress for his community and beyond. His contributions to governance, education, journalism, and literature have left an indelible mark on Ondo State and Nigeria at large.
Today, we honor not just the man but the legacy he has built—a life dedicated to uplifting others and advancing society. At 60, Peretei is a testament to the power of vision, hard work, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Here’s to Kennedy Ikantu Peretei: a statesman, scholar, and inspiration to generations past, present, and future. Happy Diamond Jubilee!
