President Bola Tinubu and former President Olusegun Obasanjo have expressed deep sorrow over the death of renowned industrialist and business mogul, Otunba Adekunle Ojora, who died at the age of 93.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commiserated with the government and people of Lagos State, as well as the Ojora and Adele royal families.

“The passing of Otunba Ojora is a significant loss to the country, the private and public sectors, and traditional institutions,” the President said.

Tinubu described the late industrialist as a man whose life was defined by humility, perseverance, hard work and generosity, noting that his values shaped his long and distinguished career.

According to the President, Ojora made lasting contributions to nation-building, particularly through his service in both public and private sectors.

“He remained a towering figure whose counsel and experience benefited institutions at both national and subnational levels,” Tinubu said.

The President extended his condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for the repose of the deceased’s soul.

Also reacting, Obasanjo described Ojora’s death as painful, saying his absence would be difficult to fill.

“The finality of the passing of Otunba Adekunle Ojora is painful, as his place will be difficult to fill both in the family and in the country,” Obasanjo said.

In a tribute released by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the former President described Ojora as “an amiable and notable Nigerian who built a living legacy of integrity, wisdom and dedication.”

He said Nigeria had lost “a notable captain of industry and commerce,” adding that the late industrialist’s contributions to national development would not be forgotten.

“He was, by all measures, a great man, an ardent patriot, a frontline indigenous industrialist, an accomplished administrator, a foremost businessman and a tireless philanthropist,” Obasanjo stated.

The former President said Ojora was widely respected for his mentorship and guidance of younger generations.

“Over the years, with his wise counsel and gentle guidance, Otunba Ojora commanded the respect and reverence of all,” he said.

Obansanjo also noted that the late industrialist received several national and international honours in recognition of his service to Nigeria and humanity

(Punch)