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By Young Erhiurhoro
Prof. Sunny Awhefeada is a household name in the world of Literature and Classical Writings. Though he is young in age, he has mentored and modeled so many Nigerians as acclaimed scholar and educator in Nigerian higher institutions especially the Delta State University, Abraka where he’s currently lecturing.
Through his well researched publications in his area of academic specialization and articles on various subjects, many students and readers have benefited immensely, including myself.
As a matter of fact, I first knew Prof. Sunny Awhefeada through the Urhobo Historical Society’s conferences and other events. His literary prowess in delivery public lectures is second to none. I always applaud him as the second Urhobo scholar that have written much on Urhobo history, culture, folklore, myths and legends after the late Prof. Peter Ekeh, the founder of the UHS. Even till this very moment, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada is still using his academic career to promote the cultural heritage and historical background of the Urhobo people through fictions, poetry and drama.
Interestingly, I have been with Prof. Sunny Awhefeada in many occasions since I knew him. He is a man with the heart of generosity, hospitality and kindness. Despite his many awards, academic titles, laurels and traditional recognition, he’s one man I know that is simple, quiet and humble to the core. He doesn’t sing his praises as some people do. In everything he does as a person and a leader, he never demands for publicity or praises. The truth about Prof. Awhefeada is that, he has contributed immensely to the education of so many graduates and students in that DELSU. He is a lecturer who is always happy to give out his monthly salaries to pay students school fees. The story is the same, even in his Ughelli residence. So many students have visited him for one help or the other.
However, Prof. Sunny Awhefeada as I know him, which I also believe that others who are close to him can equally testify, is a man that doesn’t compromise on issues of any kind. He’s a highly disciplined man with unshakable integrity.
Today, the name of Urhobo as a recognized ethnic group in Nigeria is well respected by people of other ethnic groups and nationalities because of people like Prof. Sunny Awhefeada. Truly, a good name is better than riches. While many of our politicians are painting the name of Urhobo black, scholars like Prof. Awhefeada are struggling with the ink and the pen to paint the name of Urhobo white. This is actually the work Prof. Sunny Awhefeada has continued to placed on himself by trying to lift the name of Urhobo from the dust and mud through his classical writings and literary orientation.
Therefore, my Mentor and Teacher, in this occasion of your birthday celebration, I know so many people have presented special and notable birthday gifts to you and others sent different tributes. But what I have, I give to you as a role model and internationally acclaimed scholar. Happily accept these words of mine as words of encouragement and appreciation to enable you do more for the Urhobo people and Nigeria at large. I can see that, as a young man full of vibrant ideas and sellable dreams, you still have much to accomplish in fulfilling your destiny and dreams. You have just started the journey of life. How I wish there is another academic title other than “Professor”, I faithfully believe you would have been awarded by the university management. But in the world over, Professor is the highest academic title, showing you levels of academic qualifications and the numbers of researches and publications you have undertaken. This highly coveted title is what you already attained in your academic journey. My Prof, it’s therefore my prayers that God Almighty should add more fruitful years to your age in good health and longevity. You will live to become the oldest man of Orogun kingdom and also become a scholar of authority in the university community. Once again, happy birthday celebration to you sir! This is just my little birthday gift to you on this occasion.
I’m your son and student,
Young Erhiurhoro;Kjc.
