Obasanjo mourns Otunba Adekunle Ojora

Hails Legacy of Integrity and Service
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned businessman, industrialist, and elder statesman, Otunba (Dr.) Adekunle Ojora, OFR, CON, JP, who passed away at the age of 93.
In a heartfelt tribute released on Tuesday, Obasanjo described the late Otunba Ojora as an amiable and notable Nigerian whose life was defined by integrity, wisdom, patriotism, and unwavering dedication to national development. He commiserated with the Ojora and Adele royal families of Lagos, as well as the government and people of Lagos State, over what he described as a monumental loss.
According to Obasanjo, the passing of Otunba Ojora marks the end of an era, noting that Nigeria has lost a distinguished captain of industry and commerce whose contributions to the development of the South-West and the nation at large remain indelible.
Otunba Ojora began his professional career in journalism before transitioning into business and public service. His career spanned several prestigious institutions, including a brief stint as Assistant Editor at the BBC in London in 1954, the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation, and the Nigerian Civil Service between 1955 and 1961. He was also attached to the Manchester Guardian as Assistant Commonwealth Editor in 1958 and later served as Public Relations Manager at the United African Company (UAC) Nigeria Limited from 1962 to 1967.
Obasanjo described him as a positively minded, focused, and imaginative personality who excelled in every role he undertook. He noted that Otunba Ojora was not only a foremost businessman and administrator but also a tireless philanthropist whose entrepreneurial vision provided livelihoods for hundreds of families and inspired generations of indigenous entrepreneurs and industrialists.
“He was a role model and mentor who took pleasure in guiding younger men and women toward success,” Obasanjo stated, adding that Ojora commanded universal respect through his wisdom, strength of character, and gentle leadership style.
The former president also highlighted Otunba Ojora’s strong family values, describing him as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather whose legacy of love and loyalty will endure within his family and beyond.
In recognition of his outstanding service, Otunba Ojora received numerous national and international honours, including the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) in 1982, Officer of the Order of Commadatore of Italy (1972), Freedom of the City of London (1989), Grand Ufficiale al Merito della Repubblica Italiana (1992), and the Grand Decoration of Honour in Silver of Austria, among others. He also held revered traditional titles, including Otunba of Lagos (1979) and Lisa of Ife (1981).
Obasanjo noted that although his passing is painful, especially given his enduring capacity to contribute to society, there is consolation in the fact that he lived a responsible, fulfilled, and impactful life. He described the late industrialist as a devout Muslim and a worthy patriarch whose absence will be deeply felt.
He extended his condolences to Otunba Ojora’s wife, Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, and members of the Ojora and Adele royal families, praying for divine strength and comfort during the period of mourning.
“May the soul of our dearly beloved Otunba Adekunle Ojora rest in perfect peace,” Obasanjo concluded.

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