Babafemi Ojudu: A Fool at 64?
By
Wale Ojo-Lanre, Esq.
Are you asking me?
Or are you making a valid statement?
Walai, only a foolish fellow like you will think this way!
Because if fighting for democracy, risking one’s life for justice, sacrificing personal comfort for the masses , standing against oppression, and shaping the political landscape with wisdom and courage make a man a fool—then, by all means, Babafemi Ojudu is guilty as charged.
But history does not call him a fool.
It calls him an Ebora , an enigma , a force of nature, a fearless crusader, a relentless warrior for truth, democracy, and development.
Ojudu’s journey into national consciousness began with his pen—a weapon sharper than any sword.
As a first-class journalist, he did not just report the news; he shaped narratives, challenged oppression, and stood in the trenches of truth. His unwavering commitment to democracy during Nigeria’s dark days of military rule came at a steep price.
He was imprisoned for fighting for the actualization of the June 12 mandate, a sacrifice that earned him international recognition. Today, his prison attire is preserved at the Newseum in Washington, D.C., a testament to his indomitable spirit.
Courage is his second nature. Where others hesitate, he dares. Where others retreat, he advances. Ojudu’s foray into politics was not for personal gain but for the greater good of his people.
As a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, he championed the cause of his constituents with the same fire that defined his journalism. As Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Political Matters, serving Prof Yemi Osinbajo he wielded strategy like a master chess player, navigating the complexities of governance with intellect and foresight.
Beyond politics, Ojudu is a custodian of heritage, a lover of arts, and a firm believer in the power of culture. His passion for tourism and cultural preservation led to the establishment of the Olowe Museum Foundation, a visionary step towards honoring Nigeria’s rich artistic legacy. He has consistently promoted cultural tourism as a vehicle for economic development, ensuring that future generations remain connected to their roots.
Ojudu’s commitment to national development extends to agriculture, where he has dedicated himself to promoting food security and rural development. His transition into farming is a testament to his belief that a nation’s strength lies in its ability to feed itself.
His life has not been a smooth sail. It has been marked by struggles, challenges, disappointments, and frustrations.
Yet, through it all, he remains undeterred, driven by an unshakable belief in justice, fairness, and progress. His contributions to the building of Ekiti as a model state are monumental, and he continues to fight for a better Nigeria with the same vigor that defined his youth
Beyond his public persona, Babafemi Ojudu is a devoted family man. He shares his life with Tola Ojudu (nee Adebiyi), a proud daughter of Usi-Ekiti. Their union is a testament to his deep respect for tradition and the enduring bonds of family.
So, a fool at 64?
No.
A legend at 64!
Babafemi Ojudu remains a towering figure in Nigeria’s sociopolitical landscape—bold, sagacious, strategic, and unrelenting. He is never tired of fighting for a just cause, never weary of standing on the side of truth.
Today, we celebrate not just a man but an Ebora, a rare gem, a fearless warrior, and an unwavering patriot.
May his days be long, his impact even greater, and his legacy forever etched in the annals of history
Okun ooo
Ana mi Ayiye!
Kare ooo
Omo Ado Ewi
Omo Ewi Otu
Okunrin gidigba ti mba oke
leru
Ina njo , ogiri ko sa
akata kiti
Akiti kata
Okunrin mejo ti
Nwon npe ni enikan
Okun oo
Oga Gani , oko Tola
Igba Odun ,Odun kan
Congratulations Sir !
Signed
Amb Wale Ojo-Lanre Esq
Ibipeju Oniru Chamber
Irede Estate
Upper Ogudu River
Temidire
Usi Ekiti
27. 3. 25