A significant figure in Nigerian politics and finance, Prince Ajibola Afonja, has passed away.
Afonja served as the Minister of Labour and Productivity during the Interim National Government of Chief Ernest Shonekan.
Hailing from Oyo town, Oyo State, he passed away at the age of 82 on Sunday night at the University College Hospital in Ibadan following injuries sustained in a lone accident near his country home in Ilora.
Aside from his political career, Afonja was renowned as the former Chairman of First Bank. He was also known for his involvement as a senatorial candidate for the All Nigeria Peoples Party in the Oyo Central Senatorial District.
Chairman of Oyo Global Forum, Taiwo Adebayo, confirmed Afonja’s demise to the press on Monday, lauding him as a community leader and an exemplary industrialist.
Adebayo remarked on the profound impact of Afonja’s passing on the entire Oyo town, acknowledging his pivotal role in the community’s development.
He stated, “On this dark day in Oyo, we mourn the loss of Prince Ajibola Afonja, former Labour Minister and Chairman of First Bank Nigeria, who passed away on Sunday night, aged 82. Although a national figure with tremendous influence, he was particularly light for the Oyo community where he made pioneering efforts as an industrialist.”
Even in his final days, Afonja remained committed to his vision for transformative business ventures, such as the E-Customs project. Adebayo affectionately referred to him as “Daddy IDS,” recognizing his dedication to his manufacturing company.
Afonja’s legacy of generosity and leadership will endure, inspiring future generations to uphold the values he cherished. Adebayo concluded by extending heartfelt condolences to Afonja’s family, the Oyo community, and his global network of friends and associates, urging all to honor his memory by continuing his legacy of service and compassion.
