On the evening of August 19, 2024, Kakalistiq.com reports that Epe was shrouded in grief as news spread of the passing of its pioneering oil and gas magnate who orchestrated the Total Energies retail outlet, Alhaji Surakat Adeyemi Apena, at the venerable age of 97. Known far and wide as a champion of unity, integrity, and Islamic faith, Baba Total’s death was more than the loss of a patriarch; it was the end of an era. The streets of Epe, particularly around his residence on Adeyemi Apena Street, became a pilgrimage site for mourners who travelled from near and far to pay their final respects.
In line with Islamic tradition, Alhaji Apena was laid to rest the next day, with his funeral procession passing through landmarks that had defined his life in Epe: Paramount, the Total Filling Station, Aiyetoro/Lagos Road and Cele/Kasali Oluwo. Earlier at the iconic Epe Central Mosque, Ita-Opo, the entire town gathered for the Janaza prayers, honouring a man whose life had touched every corner of the community.
The 8th-day Fidau prayers saw a blessed downpour—a fitting symbol of the heavens weeping for one of Epe’s finest. The atmosphere was not one of mere mourning but a celebration of a life that had brought unity, development, and unwavering principles to the people of Epe.
Reflecting on his life, Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji, former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, shared personal reflections on Apena’s generosity which had a significant impact on his political journey as Speaker-Emeritus of the Lagos State House of Assembly. “Alhaji Apena was known for his compassion and willingness to support others. His generosity touched many lives,” Ikuforiji added.
The Lagos Lawmaker representing Epe Constituency I and the Balogun-General of Epe Land, Hon. Abiodun Tobun, painted a vivid portrait of a man defined by courage and conviction. “Baba was a social and straightforward person,” he remarked. “He was bold, courageous, and a God-fearing individual who spoke his truth no matter the circumstances. Baba was the epitome of sincerity, steadfastness, and industriousness. His legacy is one of honesty and integrity—traits that are sorely missed in today’s world.”
Mr. Bayo Apena, one of Alhaji Apena’s accomplished sons, his father’s departure was as inevitable as it was profound. “God giveth and He taketh,” he said, eyes reflecting the wisdom of generations. “He lived a life of comfort and strength, filled with truthfulness and a no-nonsense attitude. Baba’s philosophy was simple: if you are a liar, stay away. He valued honesty above all else and held everyone around him to that same high standard.”
Mr. Apena’s reflections were more than just memories—they were lessons. He recalled his father’s mediation in community disputes, particularly one involving electricity, where his impartiality and dedication to the truth restored power to Epe. “He never received a single query in his forty years at Total Nigeria PLC, a testament to his impeccable work ethic. His legacy is one of fortitude and uprightness, and I pray that we all continue to embody these virtues in his honour.”
Lagos State Civil Service Commissioner and Baamofin of Epe Kingdom, Barr. Tunde Seriki, shared his personal experience with Baba during their pilgrimage to Hajj. “We lived together for days, and I got to know Baba on a deeply personal level. He was truthful, fearless, and never shied away from speaking his mind. Baba was a blessing to everyone who knew him, and we pray for God’s mercy upon him. May his legacy continue to shine bright, and may his soul rest in peace.”
Otunba Dr. Dengel Anifowose, the Akinrogun of Epe Kingdom, expressed his pride in Baba’s legacy. “He was one of the most trusted fathers, always standing for justice and never compromising on the truth. Baba was a man of the people, highly detribalized, and loved by both old and young. It’s a joy to celebrate his life today, knowing he lived to 97 and left behind a legacy of peace and unity.”
Alhaji Taofeek Olowofowosere, a prominent business magnate and former president of Epe Club, mirrored these sentiments. “Baba was a pioneer in the petroleum business in Epe, blazing a trail that many of us followed,” he said with pride. “He taught us that hard work and perseverance are the keys to success, and I am grateful to have had him as a mentor. Today, as we navigate the oil and gas industry, his teachings continue to guide us.”
Pa Ayodele Alebiosu, an in-law, echoed these reflections with a personal touch. “Baba was more than a father-in-law; he was a mentor and a guide. His death is a painful loss, but his lessons on discipline, kindness, and integrity will forever be etched in our hearts. May the Almighty forgive his shortcomings and grant him Aljannah Fridaus.”
For Dr. Morufdeen Adeniyi Shittu, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of LASUED, Alhaji Apena’s death was both a loss and a celebration of a life well-lived. “Baba believed in waiting for God’s time and always prayed for the younger generation,” Dr. Shittu noted. “He was a leader who never sought to outshine others but encouraged everyone to be content and live within their means. His humility and wisdom were his greatest gifts to us. He died as a Muslim and not as someone else and we are glad that he has a place in Aljannah.”
Associate Professor Nasiru Onibon, former Provost of MOCPED, shared similar sentiments. “Baba was resilient and hardworking, always striving to uplift his community. Even in his advanced years, he remained active and dedicated to his values. He was a depository of history and a unifying force in Epe. His legacy is one of perseverance, honesty, and piety. In terms of the division in Epe, as much as Baba was a depository of history, he still wanted unity. He was the only elderly that attended the coronation of the Olu-Epe of Epe kingdom because he called me and I escorted him there.”
The atmosphere at the event was filled with a deep sense of reverence and admiration, as Honorable Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju Lekki LGA, spoke fondly of the late Alhaji Surakat Apena. “I don’t even know where to start from,” he began, visibly moved. “Baba was not just one of the great sons of Epe town but of the entire Epe division. His legacies are everywhere, his footprints visible for all to see, and that’s why you see this multitude of people today. Baba lived a good life; he was an accomplished businessman, a disciplinarian to the core, and a role model to many, including myself.”
Hon. Olowa continued, urging the younger generation to learn from Baba’s legacy. “One of the things lacking in this current generation is historical knowledge. We need our youth to read about heroes of the past, like the late Alhaji Surakat Apena, who came from nothing to something. A book chronicling his life would serve as a valuable mentor to them.” This was corroborated by Prince Fatai Aragbada, General Secretary of the Alara Adesowon Ruling House, Ilara, Epe.
Echoing the sentiments of honour and respect, Hon. Segun Agbaje, Commissioner III of the Lagos State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM), reflected on Baba’s indelible impact. “Baba is our father and mentor—Baba of all. He contributed immensely to the development of Epe and the entire division. He was always there for Epe; when it came to development, he listened more keenly than to anything else. The Epe of today compared to yesterday is a testament to his efforts, and it’s on this foundation that we will build the Epe of tomorrow.”
High Chief Olatunde, the Odofin of Epe land and Secretary-General of the Oloja-in-council of Obas and Chiefs, added a historical perspective, describing Baba as an icon and a unifier. “Baba Apena was a special being to the family. He used all his resources to ensure the unity of the Ilara and Laporu families. He was the Baba Adini of Epe Central Mosque, and he constantly preached love and unity among the people.”
Former Lekki LCDA Chairman, Barrister Mukandas Ogidan, noted the significance of Baba’s life, describing him as a blunt, truthful, and courageous leader. “Prince Surakat Adeyemi Apena was factual and didn’t shy away from speaking the truth, no matter the consequences. He was a brave speaker, admired for his inspiring traits and his commitment to unity, regardless of tribal lines. He loved both Ijebu and Eko Epe communities and constantly preached coexistence and harmony.”
Hon. Shittu Aliu Idowu, Education Secretary of the Local Government Education Authority in Epe LGA, spoke passionately about Baba’s impact on the community. “He was more than a businessman; he was a leader and a pillar of truth,” he said. “Baba brought the first filling station to Epe, creating jobs and opportunities for the youth. He was a religious leader who built mosques and championed the values of honesty and community service. His life was a testament to the power of unity and faith.”
Prince Segun Osinaike, the Tutor-General and Permanent Secretary of Education District IV, highlighted Baba’s pragmatic nature and relentless impact on the community. “Baba Apena was a philanthropist and a lover of the community who was determined to see a better version of Epe. His dedication was unmatched, and his legacy will continue to inspire us. The children he left behind should uphold his legacy, ensuring it doesn’t fade into extinction.”
The late Alhaji’s influence extended far beyond his family. To Mr. Yusuf Yunus, a seasoned journalist and president of Club Seventies Epe, Baba was not just a businessman but a mentor and a guiding light. “He was a very lovely, accessible, and caring person,” Yunus recalled fondly. “I remember his words of wisdom, how he encouraged young men like myself to work hard and stay focused. He had this rare ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and it’s no wonder so many have gathered today to honour him.”
As the eighth-day Fidau prayers drew to a close, it was clear that Alhaji Surakat Adeyemi Apena’s life had touched countless hearts. His dedication to his family, his unwavering commitment to his faith, and his relentless pursuit of truth and unity had left an indelible mark on all who knew him.
The rains that blessed the day were seen not as tears of sorrow but as a celestial acknowledgement of a man whose life had been a beacon of light in Epe and beyond. As the town bade farewell to their beloved patriarch, his legacy continued to inspire, a testament to the power of integrity, humility, and unwavering faith.
