- Dignitaries across politics, traditional institutions, and public service gathered to honour the late pioneer chairman
- Leaders described him as a selfless educator, mentor, and pillar of grassroots development
- Speakers urged the community to uphold his values of humility, fairness, and service
Ejinrin town in Ikosi-Ejinrin Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Epe Division of Lagos State, was filled with emotions, prayers, and tributes on Saturday, November 1, 2025, as dignitaries from across the state gathered for the 8th-day Fidau prayer held in honour of the pioneer Chairman of the LCDA, Late Alhaji Ganiyu Adio Akintola, who died on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the age of 87.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the solemn event brought together political leaders, traditional rulers, technocrats, and community stakeholders who described the late statesman as an exceptional leader, educator, and community pillar whose legacy would continue to influence generations.
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Among those in attendance were member of the Lagos Governance Advisory Council and Emeritus Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Sabit Ikuforiji; Member, Federal House of Representatives for Epe Federal Constituency, Hon. Wale Tasir Raji;
the Elejinrin of Ejinrin Kingdom, HRM Oba Rafiu Balogun; former Lagos lawmaker, Hon. Segun Olulade (Eleniyan); and Member, Lagos House of Assembly representing Epe Constituency II, Hon. Sylvester Oluwadahunsi Ogunkelu (Sketel).
Also present were Chairman, Lagos State SUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu; Chairman, Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, Akogun Wale Raji-Anomo; former Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA Chairmen, Hon. Samson Onanuga (Bobo) and Hon. Adetola Ganiyu Segun (Segun 3); Group Managing Director, Ibile Holdings, Mr. Tobi Lawal; and the APC Chairman of the council, Hon. Witu Bamidele Ajenifuja.
Dignitaries recounted the late Akintola’s integrity, humility, and dedication to public service, describing him as a leader who placed the welfare of his people above personal interest.
They noted that his exemplary contributions to community development, education, and grassroots governance remain a beacon of inspiration.
Speaking on his influence and mentorship, Hon. Segun Olulade (Eleniyan) said the late chairman was instrumental to his political journey.
“He was a loving and compassionate leader who dedicated his life to the development and well-being of his people. He supported many destinies and guided leaders across Epe Division. We have lost a great pillar of service and integrity.”
Similarly, Hon. Ogunkelu, represented by Hon. Okeowo Adewale, described the deceased as a father figure and moral guide.
“My father is gone. He adopted me as a son, supported me, and encouraged my journey. His simplicity, fairness, and love defined his leadership. This is a painful loss to Epe Constituency II.”
In his tribute, Chairman, Lagos SUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, shared how the late Akintola personally redirected his academic path and shaped his future.
“In 1976, when I got admission into a school in Epe, he insisted I must not go there. He personally took me to another school in Ibonwon, where I excelled. He played a divine role in my life. He was a remarkable administrator, educator, and mentor.”
Executive Chairman of Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, Akogun Wale-Anomo, expressed deep respect for the deceased’s supportive role in his administration.
“He was a father and a backbone to us. We supported him through his health challenges because we didn’t want him to leave us, but God knows best. His values of humility, loyalty, honesty, and peace will remain our guide.”
Speaking on behalf of the traditional institution, the Elejinrin of Ejinrin Kingdom, HRM Oba Rafiu Balogun, praised the late leader’s love for community and dedication to development.
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“He was a true son of the soil—humble, peaceful, and committed to progress. He served Ejinrin, Lagos State, and Nigeria with honour. I urge his children and all of us to sustain his legacy.”
Offering Islamic prayers and spiritual reflections, clerics encouraged the family and community to find solace in his impactful life and enduring legacy.
