TRIBUTE: I AM SURE BARR KUNLE ISHOLA COULDN'T HAVE CONSENTED TO THIS KIND OF "JAAPA". // ROTIMI JOHNSON OJASOPE

Barrister Adekunle Olumuyiwa Ishola transitioned to glory on Tuesday, July 2, 2024. Born on February 20, 1961, Barrister Ishola was the first son of former Governor Kolapo Ishola, who governed Oyo State from 1991 to 1993 under the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP). His demise marks the end of an era, leaving a void that will be deeply felt by many.

A legal luminary of exceptional repute, Barrister Kunle Ishola's career was marked by his unwavering dedication to justice and service. He served with distinction as the Commissioner for Agriculture under Governor Adebayo Alao Akala, and his political base was the Akinyele Local Government. As the Principal Partner of Kunle Ishola & Co., he demonstrated not only legal acumen but also a profound sense of humanity. His commitment to the legal profession was paralleled by his commitment to his community and his family. Barrister Ishola was more than a legal professional; he was a gentleman in all respects. He was a responsible father, devoted husband, and silent philanthropist whose generosity knew no bounds. His acts of kindness were often performed quietly, away from the public eye, always aiming to assist others with minimal or no attention drawn to himself. For instance, he would buy the remaining goods from a seller, not because he cared for the product but because they were perishable items and would cost the peasant seller too much if not sold within 48 hours. He instructed that these be distributed to children and anyone who cared for them. His legacy of giving and supporting will remain etched in the hearts of those he touched.

Reflecting on my personal journey with Barrister Ishola, I am filled with both gratitude and regret. For about eight years, I had the privilege of knowing him, but it was in the last two years that I truly came to understand the depth of his character. His words of wisdom, cheerful greetings, and unwavering support were a source of strength to me and many others. Our last encounter remains vivid in my memory; it was after a church service, and as he headed towards his SUV, I approached him with a request. I asked if he could help with the posting of a friend’s son to his chamber for Youth Service. His immediate response, "If it's you, consider it done," was followed by a letter to facilitate the posting. This act encapsulates the essence of who he was - a gentle giant, trained in England and America, whose impact extended far beyond his role as the first son of a former governor.

Barrister Ishola's presence in the church was always marked by his close bond with his wife, whom I affectionately call Mummy. They were often seen sitting together, a testament to their enduring partnership. His shared birth date with one of my daughters was another connection that deepened our relationship, and his identity as a fellow Februarian was a cherished bond.

As we mourn the loss of this notable figure and experienced public administrator, we also celebrate his life and the indelible mark he left on all of us. His contributions to the legal field, his community, and his family were profound and far-reaching. He was a notable member of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), and his impact on Ibadan and beyond will be remembered for generations.

In these times, we are reminded of the words, "Oh, how are the righteous fallen, oh how are the good ones vanishing?" Indeed, we have lost a pillar of support and a beacon of righteousness. As we bid farewell to Barrister Adekunle Olumuyiwa Ishola, we do so with hearts full of respect and gratitude for a life well-lived. Since his passage, no one is talking about his mansions, the kind of cars he drove, or the apparels he adorned himself in because this life isn't really about material things but the marks and impacts we make while serving God and humanity.

Barrister Adekunle Olumuyiwa Ishola, "Oko Iya-Afin" Adebola Ishola, though we can't mourn like the earthens do, we can't deny how much we are missing you already. If it would give me any emotional relief, I would just assume you have "Jaapa" and changed your phone number; you're somewhere else and not just reachable for now; you have gone to where the grasses are not only greener, laboring for survival isn't necessary, the climate cannot change, and time is suspended.

Our prayers and thoughts are with your beloved wife, the children, and all those whose lives you touched and who are grieving seriously because you Jaapa without saying goodbye.

Thank you, Barrister Adekunle Olumuyiwa Ishola, for making your life a message for me and many others around you while you could.

May his soul rest in perfect peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire us all.

Rotimi Johnson Ojasope BSc, PGDPA, ANIPR, FPD-CR 

Public Relations Consultant & Public Affairs Analyst 

rotisbon2@gmail.com