Ace Broadcaster, Yinka Ayefele Thanks Oyo Ex- Governor, Ajimobi For Fresh FM Global Popularity
By Seyifunmi Odunuga
Ace broadcaster, musician and Chairman of Fresh FM Group, Dr. Yinka Ayefele, has recalled how the partial demolition of Music House housing Fresh FM Ibadan by the late Abiola Ajimobi-led government brought the station to global popularity.
Ayefele gave the narration at a press conference, marking the station’s 10th anniversary on Wednesday, held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall, Oyo NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.
The musician, who is also a broadcaster, said though it was painful that the then governor approved the partial demolition of Music House to pave way for road expansion, the backlash from the station’s lovers and his own fans, sounded Fresh FM at several corners of the world.
He said he was invited for an interview over the incident by the BBC London and the CNN, in addition to the countless local media outlets.
“I am eternally grateful to the late governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, for the blessing that came with his decision to pull down part of Music House. The incident brought the radio station to great popularity. BBC London and CNN invited me for interview over the incident,” he said.
He said that the late Ajimobi later sponsored the rebuilding of the structure.
He said that the late Ajimobi later sponsored the rebuilding of the structure.
Ayefele also commended Governor Seyi Makinde, who he said had been a good friend before becoming governor. He said Makinde has been supporting the station, stressing that both governors have played an important role in Fresh FM’s success.
Ayefele explained that he established the radio station with the goal of changing the face of radio broadcasting in Nigeria, stressing that he was glad to realise that vision.
“My vision is to change the face of broadcasting in Nigeria. And I think I have achieved that aim,” he said.
According to him, the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) investigated him for seven years before Fresh FM licence was issued.
He also expressed gratitude to former President Goodluck Jonathan for approving Fresh FM licence in the last few months of his administration.
