Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the death of renowned business mogul and industrialist, Otunba Adekunle Ojora, as painful, saying his passing has left a vacuum in his family and the country that would be difficult to fill.
In a tribute released on Wednesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo eulogised the late Ojora as an “amiable and notable Nigerian” whose life was defined by integrity, wisdom and uncommon dedication to national development.
He said Nigeria had lost a frontline indigenous industrialist and a distinguished captain of industry and commerce, noting that Ojora’s legacy would endure through his landmark contributions to the growth of the South-West and the nation at large.
Obasanjo described the late business leader as “a great man, ardent patriot, accomplished administrator and tireless philanthropist,” whose entrepreneurial vision, resilience and determination uplifted communities and sustained hundreds of families through his business ventures.
According to him, Ojora was also a mentor and role model whose personal achievements inspired generations of entrepreneurs, merchants and industrialists, adding that his wise counsel and gentle guidance earned him deep respect across social and professional circles.
“He took particular pleasure in mentoring younger men and women to succeed in life. To his family, he was an amazing father, grandfather and great-grandfather — a cornerstone of love, loyalty and family values,” the former President said.
Obasanjo further noted that Ojora’s consistency and excellence earned him several national and international honours, including the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic, conferred by the Federal Government in 1982; Officer of the Order of Commendatore of Italy in 1972; Freedom of the City of London in 1989; and Grand Ufficiale al Merito della Repubblica Italiana in 1992, among others.
He added that Ojora also enjoyed deep respect within traditional institutions, having been honoured with titles such as Otunba of Lagos in 1979 and Lisa of Ife in 1981.
Speaking personally, Obasanjo said Ojora and his wife, Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, were steadfast supporters of his family, describing their friendship, reliability and generosity as rare virtues.
“No matter when we beckoned — for major celebrations, small gatherings or last-minute needs — he and his wife were always there. Their consistent presence meant more to us than words can say,” he said.
The former President lamented that Ojora still had much to contribute to his family, community and the nation but expressed solace that he lived “a very responsible and caring life,” describing him as a devout Muslim, good family man and worthy father.
He extended his condolences to Ojora’s wife and the entire Ojora and Adele royal families of Lagos, praying God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.
“The finality of Otunba Adekunle Ojora is painful. His place will be difficult to fill both in the family and the community,” Obasanjo added, praying that his soul rests in perfect peace.
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