DAYO ADEDAYO
How does one begin to write a tribute to a man I was with less than twenty-four hours ago?
This is, without question, the most shocking death I have experienced in my sixty-one years on this blue planet. Only last night, Kunle and I sat opposite each other, exchanging banters, sharing laughter, and even making plans for our next meeting.
It was Kunle who took charge of the evening, quietly orchestrating everything to perfection. He directed the photographer, ensured every detail was in place, and was the reason our President, A. U. Mustapha, called for a standing ovation in his honour. The dinner, a surprise for our Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Sir Alex Osunde, bore the mark of Kunle’s dedication. He called, followed up, and insisted that all of us in The Bridge Club attend. That was the kind of man he was, always selfless, always ensuring others were cared for.
At exactly 12:02 a.m., Kunle sent me a video of my speech from that evening. I replied at 3:12 a.m., thanking him as we often did, not knowing that would be the last message I would ever send him. Then, at 10:54 a.m., Jyd Ademujimi , who introduced us nearly thirty years ago, called to deliver the unthinkable news. I thought he was joking, as we so often teased each other. But he wasn’t. Kunle Olagunju was gone. Just like that.
Kunle was more than a friend. He was family. From the day Folarin introduced us, a bond was sealed. He was the one who brought me into The Bridge Club, and it is painfully ironic that the same Folarin would be the one to break the news of his departure.
How do I begin to describe such a gentle soul? Kunle was a man of peace, fondly known as Baba Jeje, a man who would not hurt a fly. A devoted husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend, his life was an example of quiet strength and deep responsibility. Ten years and four months ago, tragedy struck when his first wife passed away suddenly. I watched him bear the weight of that loss with uncommon grace. He devoted himself wholly to his children, insisting they were his responsibility and that nothing would distract him from raising them.
Two years ago, we all rejoiced at his wedding to my dear aburo, a woman I introduced to him. From the very beginning, he loved her with all his heart. He gave himself fully, both as a husband and as a father, never wavering in his devotion.
Kunle, your passing leaves a void that words cannot fill. May your soul find eternal rest, reunited with your beloved first wife. Ma jokun, ma je ekelo, ohun ti won nba nje ni ajule orun ni ki o ba won ma je.
Goodnight, my brother, until we meet to part no more. You were more than a great man; you were an extraordinary friend. A loving husband, a devoted father, and a compassionate soul whose kindness touched everyone around you. We will miss your laughter, your calm spirit, and your selfless heart.
The Bridge Club will miss you dearly. I will miss you even more. O di gba, o di oju ala, o di arinako ka to tun ri ra wa. Sleep well, Kunle, until we meet again.