Retired journalist and cartoonist Josiah Ajiboye (Josy Ajiboye) has been commended for his immense contribution to journalism and art craft in Nigeria through his cartoons and paintings.
Ajiboye was commended by stakeholders during a 2-day exhibition held on Thursday 9 February and Saturday 11 February titled ‘Inside Out: Unveiling Josy Ajiboye’.
Motunrayo Alaka, Executive Director/CEO of Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) described him as a beacon of good journalism displayed through his witty and timeless cartoons, particularly during his days at the Daily Times.
She said the former Daily Times Group Art Editor’s work spoke to social-economic and political issues that bordered on social justice and held the government to account.
The event was adjudged as a celebration of the veteran’s contribution to contemporary art by the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti, Oba (Dr) Sunday Aikuirawo Aniyi.
He thanked the Erinmope- born artist for putting the town on the global map with his artistic prowess.
Commenting on the artworks on display, the Obaleo of Erinmope-Ekiti noted that the paintings bore eloquent testimony to his enduring contributions to humanity.
An Art historian Kunle Filani also commended Ajiboye for taking superlative naturalism to an enviable height.
Praising his passion depicted in his career and painting, Filani described Ajiboye as the father of verisimilitude in Nigeria with excellent craftsmanship.
Ajiboye’s son, Rotimi, eulogised his father and appreciated him for being a supportive and understanding father with a high taste for excellence.
In his votes of thanks, Ajiboye thanked the organisers- Main Auction House and WSCIJ for celebrating him while still alive. Main Auction House and WSCIJ organised the event to celebrate the 2021 WSCIJ Lifetime Award for Journalistic Excellence recipient’s contributions to journalism and art.
