Otunba Adekunle Ojora Dies at 93

Nigeria has lost one of its most distinguished business titans and royal patriarchs. Otunba Adekunle Ojora, revered as the Otunba of Lagos and Lisa of Ife, died early on January 28, 2026, at age 93, as confirmed by his family.

The announcement came from his daughter, Mrs. Toyin Ojora-Saraki—wife of former Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki—on behalf of the Ojora family of Lagos. Their statement read: “Inalillahi wa Ina Ilaihi Rajiun. With total submission to the will of Almighty Allah (SWT), we announce the passing of our beloved Otunba Adekunle Ojora. Alhamdulilahi for a life well lived, and we comply with Allah’s words: ‘Surely, to Allah we belong and to Him we will all return’ (Q2:156).” He is survived by his wife, Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, with burial to follow Islamic rites in Lagos.

Born June 13, 1932, into Lagos royalty, Ojora started as a journalist with the BBC in the 1950s after studying in London, later working at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation. He transitioned to corporate leadership, joining United Africa Company (UAC) in 1962 as an executive and public relations manager.

ADVERTISEMENT

Corporate Legacy

Ojora chaired AGIP Nigeria Limited’s board from 1971 until its 2002 acquisition by Unipetrol, shaping energy sector growth. Post-1966 military coup, he served on Lagos City Council, led WEMABOD Estates as MD (1967-73), and chaired Nigerian National Shipping Line. He held directorships at firms like EcoBank Nigeria and Evans Brothers UK, earning honors including Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic.​

His investments in 1970s foreign firms boosted private enterprise, marking him as a post-independence boardroom pioneer.

Traditional Influence

As Head of the Ojora Royal Family and Olori Omoba of Lagos, Ojora preserved Yoruba heritage amid modern business. Titles like Otunba of Lagos (1979) and Lisa of Ife (1981) underscored his stature.​

The family seeks prayers for his soul’s repose in Aljannah Firdaus. Tributes pour in, celebrating a dignified life of service.