Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has mourned the passing of distinguished legal luminary, industrialist, and educationist, Chief Olatunde Ayinla Abudu, describing his death as the close of a glorious chapter in the history of Egbaland in particular and Nigeria at large.

Abudu, who was laid to rest on Monday, June 9, 2025, at the Nobel House College premises in Abeokuta, was hailed by the governor as a modernising force and one of the most accomplished sons of Egba in the contemporary era.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Strategy, Hon. Kayode Akinmade, the governor extolled the life and legacy of Abudu, emphasising that his outstanding contributions to industry, education, philanthropy, and religious harmony will never be forgotten.

“To say the very least, the passing of Chief Olatunde Ayinla Abudu at the age of 96 marks the end of a glorious era,” the governor said. “As a patriot of exceptional vision, he played a pivotal role in the industrial development of Abeokuta, contributing significantly to Ogun State’s status as Nigeria’s industrial capital.”

Abiodun noted that through his pioneering efforts in promoting Metoxide Limited – an aluminium, plastics, and hardware manufacturing company – Chief Abudu laid the foundation for Abeokuta’s emergence as a thriving industrial hub. He further inspired fellow Egba aristocrats to invest in local industries, resulting in the establishment of agro-allied factories, fruit-canning plants, sawmills, and breweries.

In education, Abudu’s impact was equally transformative. He founded Nobel House College, an ICT-driven institution committed to advancing Western education, and initiated the annual Chief Olatunde Abudu Primary Schools Essay Competition (COAPSEC) to nurture creativity and critical thinking among young learners.

The governor also highlighted Abudu’s enduring legacy at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), where he singlehandedly funded the construction of the ultra-modern building that houses both the UNAAB Microfinance Bank and the Directorate of Physical Planning – a testament to his unwavering commitment to societal advancement.

As a devout man of faith, Abudu built and supported mosques, Islamic centres, and Quranic recitation competitions while actively promoting interfaith understanding and tolerance. His generosity and community spirit were felt across Egbaland and beyond, touching countless lives, both Nigerian and foreign.

“The Mayegun of Egbaland was a collaborative force in community development, national service, and even continental initiatives,” the governor added. “He was an accomplished lawyer, a compassionate philanthropist, and a dedicated education advocate whose life made a lasting difference.”

“Chief Abudu did not see personal success as complete without meaningful contributions to the lives of others. He was a jolly good fellow, deeply respected and dearly loved. His absence will be deeply felt,” Abiodun concluded.