Pedalling Through Time: The 75-Year-Old Ice Cream Vendor Who Refuses to Quit

In the bustling heart of Lagos Island, where the streets never sleep, one man has quietly defied time, hardship, and the odds for over 57 years—armed with nothing but a bicycle, sheer determination, and an undying work ethic.

At 75 years old, Oladimeji Lawal, affectionately known as “Felele” or “Pandy Joe,” still pedals through the ever-chaotic roads of Lagos, selling ice cream to generations of schoolchildren and residents. While many of his peers have long retired, he continues to ride, not out of passion alone, but because he has no pension, no retirement plan, and no financial safety net.

From a Young Cycle Boy to a Lagos Island Legend

Born in Ibadan in 1950, Lawal’s life took an unexpected turn in 1968 when he was hired as a cycle boy for an ice cream business. His exceptional riding skills landed him the job, but it was a tragic accident in Ibadan that altered his course. Encouraged by customers, he moved to Lagos in 1969, hoping for better fortune.

The move paid off—for a time. Business was booming, and in the golden years of ice cream vending, he earned enough to rent an apartment in Maroko and even buy land—a crucial step toward securing his future.

But fate had other plans.

In 1990, his dreams crumbled overnight when the military government of Raji Rasaki demolished the entire Maroko community, rendering thousands homeless—including Lawal. His hard-earned land was gone, and with it, his hopes for a comfortable future.

A Lifetime of Pedalling, No End in Sight

As ice cream sales declined in the late 1980s, reality hit hard—Lawal had no retirement benefits, no savings, and no way out. By the time he realized this, he was already in his 50s, too late to start over. The bicycle became both his burden and his lifeline.

While some of his former customers became successful, he remained on the streets, witnessing the city evolve around him. Some of these prominent figures even bought him a new bicycle when his old one gave out, but Lawal never once resorted to begging.

“The only benefit we get from the company is a raincoat every ten years,” he lamented. “They used to repair our bicycles, but not anymore.”

Dreams of a Shop, A Hope for Rest

Now at 75, age has caught up with him. He takes more breaks, his body weary from decades of pedalling. But he still dreams—not of wealth, but of a small shop where he can store ice cream and soft drinks, so he doesn’t have to roam the streets all day.

“If I don’t ride my bicycle for a day, I feel weak. My body is already used to it.”

A Man of Honor, A Life of Sacrifice

Despite the struggles, Lawal refuses to be a burden to his children, insisting they focus on their own lives. He has outlived his wife, lost everything he worked for, yet still wakes up every morning at 8 a.m., mounts his bicycle at 9 a.m., and pedals until sundown.

And while others chase riches, Lawal holds onto something far more profound: his name, his dignity, and his unbreakable spirit.

“At least, I am not begging for alms,” he says with quiet pride. “For that, I give thanks to God.”

A Cry for Help or A Story of Resilience?

Pa Lawal’s story is as inspiring as it is heartbreaking. It is a testament to hard work, sacrifice, and the brutal reality of life without financial security. The question remains: Will society step in to help this Lagos icon finally rest, or will he pedal until the very end?

Dr. Ifeoma Eze: The Connection That Transforms Lives

Dr. Ifeoma Eze isn’t just a preacher; she is a voice that awakens purpose, a mentor who nurtures potential, and a guide leading people back to the true source of value—God. With warmth, wisdom, and an undeniable passion for transformation, she delivers a simple yet powerful message: your worth isn’t defined by what you have, but by who you are connected to.

In her inspiring book, Becoming A Person of Exceptional Value, Dr. Eze drives home a truth that is often overlooked: no one can truly thrive in life without being plugged into the ultimate source—God. “We are not just physical beings trying to have a spiritual experience,” she says with conviction. “We are spiritual beings navigating a human journey.”

She takes readers back to the very beginning—Genesis 1:28—where God gave humanity a clear mandate: be fruitful, multiply, replenish the earth, subdue it, and have dominion. “This isn’t just about surviving,” she explains. “It’s about thriving, creating impact, and living a life that truly matters.”

But what happens when people try to go through life disconnected from their source? Dr. Ifeoma paints a vivid picture: “Imagine a strong, well-built water pipe. It looks good, but if it’s not connected to a water supply, it serves no purpose. That’s exactly what happens when we try to succeed without God—we may look promising, but we’ll never truly function as we were meant to.”

She also draws lessons from Jesus’ encounter with the barren fig tree. “Jesus wasn’t upset with the tree for simply existing,” she explains. “He was upset because it gave the appearance of having fruit but had nothing to show for it. And that’s how many people are today—outwardly successful but inwardly empty.”

Dr. Ifeoma Eze’s message is more than just words—it’s a heartfelt call to action. She speaks with the authority of someone who has walked this path, someone who has experienced firsthand what it means to be transformed by divine connection. Her sermons are not just lessons; they are life-changing encounters, filled with energy, encouragement, and practical wisdom.

Through Becoming A Person of Exceptional Value, she challenges people to reconnect with God, to recognize their true worth, and to step boldly into their calling. “You weren’t created to struggle in mediocrity,” she affirms. “You were made to shine, to build, to replenish, and to lead. But first, you must be connected to the One who gives all value.”

Dr. Ifeoma Eze isn’t just teaching people how to live; she’s showing them how to truly thrive. And in a world where so many are searching for meaning, her message couldn’t be more timely.

Ramadan Delight: Enjoy Flexible Payments, Huge Discounts & Exclusive Gifts with Adron Homes

In the spirit of Ramadan, Adron Homes and Properties is spreading joy and making homeownership more accessible with its “Ramadan Delight” promo. This special initiative offers incredible rewards and discounts, reflecting the company’s commitment to providing affordable housing solutions while embracing the essence of generosity during this sacred month.

As part of the promo, customers can enjoy up to 30% discount off land prices and the convenience of spreading payments for up to 24 months with flexible, zero-interest installment options. This incredible offer allows aspiring homeowners to invest in premium estates without financial strain, making their homeownership dreams a reality.

To make the season even more rewarding, Adron Homes is gifting subscribers valuable items, ensuring they experience the true delight of Ramadan. Customers who take advantage of this special offer will receive exciting gifts, including provision packs, provision hampers, standing fans, fruit baskets, microwaves, smart TVs, refrigerators, and many more luxurious rewards. Additionally, essential food items such as bags of rice, cartons of noodles, gallons of cooking oil, and Ramadan hampers will be shared, along with prayer mats and Qur’ans to support spiritual reflection.

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Beyond offering attractive property deals, Adron Homes is reinforcing its commitment to corporate social responsibility by giving back to communities, mosques, and underprivileged individuals. The company has embarked on a charitable drive, donating food items and relief materials to support those in need, embodying the true essence of Ramadan’s spirit of generosity and kindness.

With the “Ramadan Delight” promo, Adron Homes continues to redefine real estate accessibility while celebrating the beauty of giving. Now is the perfect time for individuals and families to take advantage of this remarkable opportunity to own a home while enjoying heartfelt rewards.