By Olayinka Ajayi

Political associates, friends, and children of the first civilian Lagos Deputy Governor, late Rafiu Jafojo, have eulogized the deceased at his 10th Posthumous Memorial Lecture yesterday, in Lagos.

The Chairman of the Afenifere Independent Group, Debo Olasoji, described the late politician as a man of truth, compassion, care, and courage.

Olasoji, who was his closest friend and ally, said they both ventured into cocoa export within three years of training and consequently became exporters of cocoa butter to Britain.

He, therefore, advised the children to emulate and never cut corners.

“I was privileged to have associated with Chief Rafiu for almost four decades. I met him in 1978 during the Unity Party of Nigeria. In fact, it was Alhaji Jakande who allowed me to meet Chief Jakojo.

“He is a man of culture- Truthful, compassionate, caring, and courageous. He used his connections with friends to raise capital to buy Cocoa. Within three years of our training, we became exporters of cocoa butter to Britain. It was a very hot cake at that time.

“I would encourage his children to emulate him. He will never cut corners. Nobody was close to him like me when he was alive.” He said.

A political associate, Alhaja Mojisola Alabi,, said the deceased had done well for all and sundry, including the current politicians who are the talk of the town.

Alabi urged guests and children to learn from the ideals of the deceased, as this would advance the nation.

Member of the House of Representatives, Ikeja Constituency, James Faleke, represented by his aide, Bayo Ayo, described the deceased as his father, who played a monumental role in his political journey.

“Baba is my father. I appreciate the role Baba plays in my political journey,” He said.

Granddaughter of the deceased, Mrs Bisi Fapohunda, described late Jafojo as a statesman of foresight, discipline, and purpose.

She said the deceased contributed to the institutional development of Lagos state, adding that he was a devoted family man beyond political office.

Fapohunda said Baba would ask questions and give guidance, also describing him as reserved but very thoughtful in showing love to his children.

Speaking earlier while delivering the Memorial Lecture, The Guest Lecturer, Dr Taye Oyefolu, said the key lessons from the life of the deceased are integrity, compassion, and unity.

He prayed his legacy continue to serve as guidance today, tomorrow, and forever.

“To serve with integrity, to uplift others with compassion, and to build communities that work together.

“May the legacy of Late Chief Rafiu Bakare Adeyefa-Jafojo continue to guide us today, tomorrow, and for generations to come,” he said.