On Sunday, I paid a condolence visit to the family of the dear departed Chief Niyi Ojo.
The passing of Chief Niyi Ojo is an immense loss, one that I have struggled to fully process since the devastating news broke over a week ago. Chief Ojo was far more than a mentor, leader, and benefactor to me—he was a steadfast guide whose selflessness, unwavering dedication, and integrity left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him.
I first met Chief Ojo upon my return to Nigeria in early 2021, when I assumed the role of Special Adviser on Communications and Strategy in the administration of former Governor Kayode Fayemi. In that capacity, I worked closely with key members of the governor’s communication team, including Barrister Akin Omole, the Honourable Commissioner for Information; Mr. Yinka Oyebode, the Chief Press Secretary; as well as Hon. Mary Oso-Omotosho and Hon. Segun Dipe. Chief Niyi Ojo, who served as Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, stood out for his strategic brilliance and ability to foster meaningful engagement with the public, particularly at the grassroots level.
Chief Ojo’s exceptional contributions were exemplified through innovative platforms like S’etigbo, a multifaceted public engagement initiative encompassing radio programs, town hall meetings, and publications. This initiative became a vital tool for connecting the government with its people, ensuring their voices were heard and their concerns addressed. Chief Ojo’s creativity, strategic thinking, and ability to navigate even the most complex issues with poise and tact were hallmarks of his tenure. He approached his responsibilities with passion, excellence, and an unyielding commitment to amplifying the voices and needs of ordinary citizens.
What set Chief Ojo apart was his unique ability to understand people—not just at an individual level but also in the context of their communities, stakeholder groups, and associations. He possessed an extraordinary gift for deconstructing the concerns and aspirations of diverse groups and tailoring precise, targeted communications to address them. This rare skill enabled him to foster trust, understanding, and collaboration between the government and its people, a feat that not many communicators can achieve with the same depth and effectiveness.
As I navigated my role in the Fayemi administration, Chief Ojo became one of my most trusted guides, helping me understand the intricate dynamics of governance, politics, and their intersection with development communications.
Chief Ojo hailed from Esun-Ekiti, a community neighboring Odo-Ayedun, my hometown. This shared geography gave him a profound understanding of the political dynamics and unique characteristics of my constituency. His counsel proved invaluable, particularly in navigating the complex political landscape of our region.
When I made the pivotal decision to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives, Chief Ojo’s guidance was indispensable. On the day I declared my ambition, Chief Ojo was among the few leaders who took a chance on me, standing firmly by my side with unwavering support. His belief in my vision and potential remains one of the greatest honors of my journey.
His insights, drawn from his intimate knowledge of the area’s socio-political fabric, were crucial to building connections and crafting strategies that resonated with the people. He was a critical part of my success in the election and my stewardship so far.
Even as Chief Ojo continued his role in the administration of H.E. Governor Biodun Oyebanji, while simultaneously serving as Director General of the Senator Cyril Fasuyi Constituency Organisation, his selflessness and dedication to service remained unmatched. As a key figure in Senator Fasuyi’s senatorial office, Chief Ojo was a driving force behind initiatives matching qualified candidates to job opportunities. His efforts positively impacted many individuals and families, bringing hope and change to countless lives. Despite the immense responsibilities he carried, Chief Ojo was always willing to go above and beyond to support me in my role.
Chief Ojo was instrumental in the successful renaming of the upgraded Federal University Oye-Ekiti (FUOYE) Ayedun Campus to the Oba D. B. Ogunsakin Memorial Campus, in honor of the late Elesun of Esun-Ekiti. He worked tirelessly to ensure the initiative succeeded and coordinated the presence of the late monarch’s Olori at the commissioning of the facility, all the way from Abuja. This act epitomized his dedication to preserving the legacy of leaders and the history of our communities.
Chief Niyi Ojo was not just a leader; he was a man of immense character, empathy, and selflessness. His enduring commitment to the progress of Ekiti State and his unrelenting desire to see others succeed are legacies that will continue to inspire all who were fortunate to work with him, cross his path, or read about him in the future.
As we mourn the loss of this extraordinary leader, my heart goes out to his family, friends, and the entire Esun-Ekiti community. The void his passing has created is immeasurable, but so is the impact of his life and work. May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his memory forever be a blessing and an inspiration to all of us.
