kakalistiq.com reports that the Epe Division came together yesterday in a solemn yet celebratory tribute to honour the life and legacy of Otunba Bola Odebiyi, the Board of Trustees (BOT) Chairman of the prestigious Epe Club.
Distinguished dignitaries, community leaders, and well-wishers gathered to pay their final respects to the iconic figure whose impact on Epe’s development remains indelible.
A lying-in-state procession organized by Epe Club members at the clubhouse saw the arrival of Otunba Odebiyi’s body, received with deep reverence by His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Shefiu Adewale, the Olu-Epe of Epe Kingdom, Lagos State. The atmosphere was thick with emotion – grief, admiration, and gratitude for a life well spent.
In a heartfelt address, the President of Epe Club acknowledged the profound loss and the immense contributions of the late BOT Chairman. “We have lost a rare gem,” he said, as members, family, and friends reflected on the enduring legacy of their beloved mentor.
Prayers were led by Associate Professor Nosiru Onibon, with additional solemn supplications from Fadeelatul Sheikh Thani Balogun (Alhaji Imota), seeking divine peace for the departed.
Rep. Wale Raji, Member of the House of Representatives for Epe Federal Constituency, described Chief Odebiyi as a pillar of the community. “Chief Odebiyi was a very prominent son of Epe who contributed immensely to the development of Epe and its people. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and the good people of Epe Federal Constituency,” he said.
Echoing the sentiment, Lagos State Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, represented by Dr. Hakeem Shittu, emphasized the deceased’s invaluable contributions. “His impact goes far beyond what we can express. He was passionate, selfless, and always willing to sacrifice for Epe’s growth. We will miss his wisdom and guidance,” he noted.
Bashorun Engineer Adeniyi Ogunsanya lauded Odebiyi’s leadership and mentorship. “Baba was a bridge builder, a mentor to all of us. He led by example, and we always turned to him for decisions. We never wanted to lose him, but we must now uphold his legacy,” he remarked.
Epe Club President, Chief Olayemi Dada, expressed both sorrow and gratitude. “It’s painful to lose one of our founding members. He was a great influencer and mentor in the club. However, we also rejoice that he lived a full life and left behind strong legacies,” he said.
Hon. Giwa Idris recalled how the late BOT Chairman was affectionately called the Grand Commander of Epe Club (GCEC). “His humility and leadership were exceptional,” he added.
Alhaja Alade Raji, President of the Epe Grammar School Old Students Association (EGOSA), recalled Odebiyi’s unwavering support during the school’s 70th anniversary. Prince Badejo’s wife also shared how the deceased prioritized her husband’s welfare during his illness.
Epe Club members led the procession from the clubhouse to the deceased’s family home, where Islamic rites were observed before proceeding to the first Epe Central Mosque, Oke-Balogun, for Janaza prayers led by Epe Division’s Grand Chief Imam, Fadeelatul Sheikh AbdulRahmon Sadallah Abiola. A second Janaza prayer was conducted at Zumuratul Islamiyyah Central Mosque, Epe Branch, officiated by Fadeelatul Sheikh Yemi Balogun.
Among those who witnessed the burial were former Lagos State Deputy Governor Prince Abiodun Ogunleye; Epe LG Vice Chairman, Hon. sikiru Owolomoshe; Balogun of Epe Kingdom High Chief Kadri Odedeogboro; Mr. Tunde Sanuth, Engr. Bola Matanmi, Olori Olu-Epe Alhaja Aribike Adewale, and Alhaja Rasakat Tobun.
Other include Eredo LCDA Chairman, Hon. Ismail Akinloye; Ifako-Ijaiye LG Chairman, Prince Usman Hamzat; Epe Club BOT member, Alhaji Osiefa (Adidas) amongst others.
As the sun set on a life well-lived, Epe stood in unison to celebrate a man whose influence, generosity, and dedication to community growth will be remembered for generations to come.
