Amanze Chinonye
Tributes have continued to pour in from across Nigeria following the death of Olori-ebi, HRH Otunba (Dr) Adekunle Ojora OFR, CON, JP, the Otunba of Lagos and Lisa of Ife, whose passing at the age of 93 has been widely described as the end of a defining era in traditional and corporate leadership.
The Lagos Royal Family of the late Chief (Prince) Abdul Lasisi Ajayi Ojora confirmed in a statement that the revered royal patriarch and business elder died in the early hours of Wednesday, 28 January 2026.
Born on 13 June 1932, Otunba Ojora occupied a unique position in Nigeria’s public life, combining aristocratic heritage with decades of influence in journalism, commerce and boardroom governance. He was one of the most senior figures within the Lagos royal establishment and a respected voice in the country’s corporate community.
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Within the traditional hierarchy, he held several prominent titles, including Chief Olori Omoba of Lagos, Head of the Ojora Royal Family, Head of the Oba Ologunkutere and Oba Adele Ajosun Royal Family, and Head of the Aiyeomosan Chieftaincy Family of Lagos. His role as Lisa of Ife also placed him among the senior chiefs of the ancient Yoruba city, reinforcing his standing across Yoruba land.
Ojora began his professional career in journalism after studying in London, working with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) before returning to Nigeria to join the then Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation. He later moved into the private sector, where he built a formidable reputation as a corporate leader and investor.
He was best known for his long service as Chairman of AGIP Nigeria Limited, during which he emerged as one of the most influential boardroom figures of his generation. Colleagues and industry observers credit him with helping to shape corporate governance standards in Nigeria during the post-independence period.
Following the announcement of his death, political leaders, captains of industry and traditional rulers have paid tribute to Otunba Ojora, describing him as a man of integrity, wisdom and quiet authority whose influence extended across generations.
He is survived by his wife, Erelu Ojuolape Ojora, as well as his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
The family said burial arrangements will be announced in due course, in line with Islamic rites.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
