- Abraham Giwa
IN a historic after years of divisions, members of the Birch Freeman High School Old Boys Association (BIFOBA) gathered for a homecoming event, themed: “The Reunion” on Saturday.
The gathering, which brought together alumni of many sets, was focused on reconciliation, constitutional reform and the future of the association.
The homecoming was the first collective gathering of all factions in association since their last disputed election. For years, the association operated in parallel lines.
But the reunion was specifically organised as a healing ground to reconcile differences, dissolve factional leaderships, and rebuild a united association.
Setting the tone for the day, Chairman of the Homecoming Planning Committee, Pastor Johnson Agholor, emphasised that the reunion was not merely to relive memories but to mend old wounds and reconnect broken bonds. “Reconciliation is not a sign of weakness. It is the mark of growth. It is us saying: ‘What we shared a united bond more than what divided us’,” he said.
In his speech, the inaugural Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT), Mr. Francis Van-Lare, explained that the gathering was crucial to address constitutional concerns, fix administrative lapses, and prepare for a new era. He stressed the need for transparency, rule of law and adherence to the 2001 Constitution, which guides the association.
During the plenary session, moderated by Mr. Bola Shodipo, several concerns were raised by members, notably Mr. Anthony Olaosebikan from the 1983 set, who questioned the inheritance of leadership positions without elections. In response, it was agreed that a nine-member Constitution Review Committee would be constituted to address these issues and propose reforms.
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Speaking in an interview with The Nation, Van-Lare expressed his satisfaction at seeing unity return among members after years of infighting. He revealed that the two factional executives had been officially dissolved and that a transition committee would oversee fresh elections scheduled for November. He noted that anyone, including a retired General, Anthony Onibasa, who led one faction, could contest in the upcoming elections.
A major resolution was passed by the over 200 members in attendance, officially dissolving the current executives and suspending financial contributions pending the restructuring process. The members also reaffirmed their loyalty to the only legally registered BIFOBA body recognised by the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Adding to the spirit of giving back, the 1993 set commissioned and donated 50 chairs and tables to the school, reinforcing the old boys’ commitment to supporting the school pupils and improving the learning environment.
In another interview, Akan Udoh, Chairman of the 1983 set, dismissed notions of factionalism, describing the disputes as “brothers exchanging conflicts of ideas”.
He expressed optimism about the future, noting that the constitution review and upcoming elections would ensure everyone was involved in rebuilding a stronger and united BIFOBA.
The event was attended by dignitaries and notable alumni, who hailed the reconciliation efforts and the collective commitment to chart a better path forward for the association and the school community.
“Today is not just about memories; it is about mending broken bonds and choosing unity over division,” Pastor Agholor said. “We have shown that what binds us together as brothers is far greater than what once set us apart.”
As BIFOBA looks ahead to November elections and a reviewed constitution, the mood among members remains optimistic.
The 2025 Homecoming proved that even after years of conflict, the brotherhood forged at Birch Freeman High School remains stronger and more united than ever before.