” his sudden departure has left me shattered”
By Sola Onamodu
Segun Awolowo, the grandson of the incomparable Jeremiah Olusegun Awolowo just said a sorrowful farewell to childhood friend, Abimbola Ogunbajo.
Ogunbanjo, a former Chairman of the NGX was one of the victims of the helicopter crash that claimed the lives of the chief executive officer of Access Holdings, Herbert Wigwe, his wife Chizoba, and son, Chizzy.
The helicopter crash attributed to bad weather conditions happened around California, United States of America on the night of Friday, February 9, 2024.
In bidding the friend-turned-brother farewell, the Secretary of the National Action Committee on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) wrote…
“ inà njò ogirì o sà “
It is with a heavy heart that I write these words to bid farewell to my dear brother, Abimbola Ogunbanjo who met his untimely demise on Saturday 10th February, 2024.
The news of his sudden departure has left me shattered, unable to comprehend the enormity of the loss we have suffered.
Abimbola and I shared a bond that transcended time and distance. From our days as childhood friends to the halcyon days at Igbobi College to more recent moments of pride as recipients of awards from the Igbobi College Old Boys Association. A brotherhood cemented in Geneva & Lausanne, Switzerland our friendship stood as a testament to enduring camaraderie and mutual respect.
We laughed together, we dreamed together and we faced life’s challenges hand in hand.
The title of this tribute translates to “ if a fire is burning, the wall never runs “ Those were his words to me every time we greeted encouraging us to always face our fears and never give up . “ MAN MI “ our last meeting was at Igbobi College on Sunday 4th February, both unaware it was the final goodbye.
As we grapple with the pain of his absence, let us also celebrate the life of a remarkable man who touched so many with his kindness. Though he may no longer walk among us, his legacy will endure, a guiding star for all who knew him.
To my dearest sister Titi and the entire Ogunbanjo family, I offer my most sincere and sentimental condolences and unwavering support during this trying time. May God grant you all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
And to you my dear “Ogbeni “ , may God in His infinite mercy grant your noble and proud Ijebu soul perfect and permanent peace
Amen 
With heartfelt sorrow,
Olusegun Awolowo
