Late Babalaje Of Edeland: How A Businessman’s Wealth Became A Symbol Of Community Service

By Ayobami Agboola, Osogbo

The story of successful individuals is often told through the businesses they established, the fortunes they accumulated and the positions they occupied in society. However, the story of the late Babalaje of Edeland, Chief Lawal, offers another perspective on success: the responsibility to use personal resources for the benefit of society.

Having lived for 105 years, the late businessman and community figure was remembered by family members, religious leaders and political authorities for his generosity, commitment to religious development and contributions to the unity and progress of Ede, Osun State.

His final burial ceremony, held in Ede on Saturday, provided an opportunity for those who knew him to reflect on a life that combined family responsibilities, business enterprise, philanthropy and religious commitment.

For Islamic preacher, Sheikh Abdullahi Akanni Olorunlomerue, the deceased’s contribution to the development of Islam remains one of the significant aspects of his legacy.

The cleric described the late Babalaje as a man who understood the importance of using wealth to serve humanity and promote unity.

He recalled that the deceased was the first person to make a substantial financial donation towards the construction of Ede Central Mosque.

According to him, such a contribution demonstrated a commitment to religious development that should inspire other wealthy Nigerians.

“We have lost a good man, a man who used his wealth, kindness and exemplary character to unite the people,” he said.

Olorunlomerue urged philanthropists and well-meaning individuals to emulate the deceased by supporting the less privileged and contributing to projects that would benefit society.

His appeal was reinforced by the late Babalaje’s first son, Alhaji Muftau Kolapo Lawal, who said his father was a man who loved goodness, hated injustice and cherished truth.

He urged the younger generation to embrace kindness and honesty, describing these virtues as essential ingredients for a better society.

“Let us refrain from doing evil and embrace goodness, just as my late father did throughout his lifetime,” he said.

The son also encouraged young people to make doing good a part of their daily lives, adding that the values people uphold would positively shape the future.

The deceased’s contribution to society was also acknowledged by Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, who described him as more than a successful businessman.

In a condolence message, Adeleke called him a statesman of commerce, a pillar of community development and a living archive of twentieth-century Yoruba enterprise.

The governor said the deceased exemplified integrity, hard work and community service, adding that his contributions to the economic and social development of Ede and Osun State would remain significant.

His legacy, according to Adeleke, would continue to inspire generations through philanthropy, enterprise and devotion to his people.

While his public life attracted recognition, his family also remembered him for his commitment to domestic responsibilities.

His first wife, Oyeladun Lawal, described him as a loving husband who treated his four wives equally and provided adequately for the family.

His granddaughter, Rukayat Lawal, also recalled his kindness and concern for his children, grandchildren and other people around him.

The final burial ceremony attracted the Timi of Ede, other traditional rulers, business personalities and community leaders, who joined the family to honour the deceased.

The life of the late Babalaje offers a reflection on the relationship between wealth, faith and social responsibility.

His story reinforces the belief that the true significance of business success is not limited to personal prosperity but also lies in the ability to create value, support worthy causes and contribute to the development of one’s community.

As Ede remembers its departed son, the challenge before the living is to sustain the spirit of generosity and community service that formed the central theme of tributes to him.

At 105, the late Babalaje has completed his earthly journey, but the lessons attributed to his life remain relevant to business leaders, philanthropists, religious institutions and the younger generation.