Jafojo’s legacy of integrity, service celebrated at 10th memorial lecture
Eminent Nigerians, political associates, family members and community leaders gathered at the weekend to honour the first civilian Deputy Governor of Lagos state, late Rafiu Bakare Adeyefa Jafojo. The event
Eminent Nigerians, political associates, family members and community leaders gathered at the weekend to honour the first civilian Deputy Governor of Lagos state, late Rafiu Bakare Adeyefa Jafojo.
The event marked the 10th anniversary of his passing with a memorial lecture highlighting his enduring legacy of service, integrity and community development.
Themed “A Decade of Remembrance: A Lifetime of Service,” the event drew reflections on the late statesman’s contributions to governance and grassroots development, with speakers urging current leaders to emulate his values.
Daughter of the deceased, Alhaja Bola Jafojo-Adediji, in her welcome address said the gathering was both a moment of comfort and a testament to the lasting impact of her father’s life.
“Ten years may seem like a long time, yet the memory of our father remains vivid. His voice still echoes in our hearts, and his values continue to guide our steps,” she said.
She described the late Jafojo as a man of principle, humility and unwavering dedication to the people of Lagos State, noting that his legacy lies not only in history but in the lives he touched and communities he uplifted.
“Our father believed in service, service that transcends personal gain, service with integrity, and service that leaves a lasting impact for future generations,” she added.
Delivering the first lecture titled “Public Service, Party Loyalty and Political Integrity: The Enduring Lessons from Chief Rafiu Jafojo,” Prof. Olatunji Olateju emphasised the need for ethical leadership and commitment to democratic ideals.
A biography of the late politician was also presented by his son, Hon. Adewale Jafojo, a former Chief of Staff to the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
Chairman of the Afenifere Independent Group, Debo Olasoji, described the deceased as a man defined by truth, compassion, courage and discipline, recalling their decades-long relationship.
Olasoji said he met Jafojo in 1978 during their involvement in the Unity Party of Nigeria, adding that their partnership extended beyond politics into business ventures, including cocoa export.
“He was truthful, compassionate, caring and courageous. Within three years of our training, we became exporters of cocoa butter to Britain. He never cut corners,” Olasoji said, urging the family to uphold his values.
In the second lecture titled “Chief Rafiu Jafojo: A Champion of Community Empowerment and Social Justice,” Dr. Taiye Oyefolu described the late deputy governor as a symbol of purposeful leadership rooted in humility and service.
Oyefolu said Jafojo’s life reflected a commitment to inclusion, dialogue and people-centred governance, noting that his tenure was marked by policies that prioritised education, healthcare and economic empowerment.
“His approach to governance was rooted in inclusion and dialogue. He fostered collaboration across government institutions, civil society and traditional structures,” he said.
According to him, Jafojo’s leadership style
strengthened trust within communities and promoted sustainable development.
Born on December 6, 1935, in Ebute Metta, Lagos, the late statesman rose from modest beginnings to become a key figure in Lagos politics, driven by a belief that leadership is a responsibility rather than a privilege.
Also speaking, political associate Alhaja Mojisola Alabi said the deceased contributed significantly to the growth of many political figures, urging younger generations to learn from his ideals.
Member of the House of Representatives representing Ikeja Constituency, James Faleke, through his aide, Bayo Ayo, described Jafojo as a father figure who played a pivotal role in his political journey.
“Baba is my father. I appreciate the role he played in my political journey,” he said.
Read Also: Sundiata Post out with ‘The Trinity of State Decay’ — new macro-diagnostic theory for Nigeria’s structural crisis
Son of the deceased and National Publicity Secretary of the Awori Welfare Association of Nigeria (AWAN), Prince Adeniyi Jafojo, described his father as a mentor whose guidance shaped his political path.
“He encouraged me to remain grounded at the grassroots and to stand firm in my convictions. His absence is deeply felt because he was a unifying figure,” he said.
Granddaughter, Mrs. Bisi Fapohunda, described the late Jafojo as a disciplined and purposeful statesman who contributed to the institutional development of Lagos State while remaining devoted to his family.
She noted that beyond politics, he was thoughtful and intentional in guiding his children and associates.
Dignitaries who paid tribute at the event included former Secretary to the Lagos State Government, His Eminence Asiwaju Olorunfunmi Bashorun; Senator Bode Olajumoke; former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adeyemi Ikuforiji; Chairman of Ikeja Local Government, Hon. Akeem Dauda; and President of the Awori Welfare Association of Nigeria, Chief Muhammed Olagbaye.
Speakers at the event unanimously stressed that the late Jafojo’s legacy of integrity, compassion and unity remains relevant in addressing contemporary governance challenges.
They urged leaders at all levels to prioritise service to the people, noting that true leadership is measured not by position but by lasting impact on society.
