By Bankole Ajonibadi
I first met Otunba Ademola Popoola (ODEP) as a young man who was still seeking admission into the university.
At the time, I had the privilege of being associated with the first Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Otunba Richard Adeniyi Adebayo and his Man Friday, Personal Assistant and later Special Adviser, Governor’s Office, Akogun Olubunmi Ogunleye whom I have always regarded with great respect and admiration. Otunba Popoola was a close associate and trusted friend of both men, and it was through that connection that I came to know him.
Many years later, our paths crossed again during the political activities leading up to the 2019 general elections. I was then a member of the Buhari Osinbajo Mandate Group (BOMG), while Otunba Popoola served as Director of Foreign Relations and Diaspora Affairs of the Lagos APC Governorship Campaign Organization. That renewed engagement provided me with a closer appreciation of his leadership style, organizational skills, and commitment to the causes and people he serves.
Over the years, I have watched him grow into a successful entrepreneur, political organizer, philanthropist, and community leader. Throughout this journey, he has remained consistent in the values that have long defined him: loyalty, friendship, courage, humility, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference.
Otunba Ademola Popoola is widely respected for his dedication, resilience, and ability to build lasting relationships. In both business and public life, he has earned a reputation as someone who values trust, hard work, and service. These qualities have endeared him to colleagues, associates, and community members across different spheres of society.
In politics, he is known for his support of progressive ideals and his longstanding association with Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State. His contributions to political mobilization and stakeholder engagement reflect his commitment to inclusive development and effective governance.
One of Otunba Popoola’s most admirable qualities is his sincerity. He is known for expressing his views honestly and respectfully while remaining guided by principle and conviction. His approach has earned him the respect of many who value integrity and consistency in leadership.
Beyond politics and business, he is recognized for his generosity and concern for the welfare of others. Over the years, he has supported numerous individuals and communities through acts of kindness, mentorship, and assistance, often without seeking public recognition.
Equally noteworthy is his disposition towards reconciliation and understanding. He values relationships and consistently promotes unity, cooperation, and peaceful engagement, even in the face of differing opinions.
As the founder of Emmanpop Ventures Limited, Otunba Popoola has made notable contributions to Nigeria’s aviation sector. He is also the promoter of Victoria Garden Conference and Event Center, with facilities in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, and Ibadan, Oyo State. In the hospitality industry, he serves as Founder and Chairman of Spray Park Hotel Limited, with operations in Agidingbi and Ojodu, Lagos. Through these ventures, he has contributed to job creation and economic development.
His commitment to service extends further through the ODEP Foundation, a philanthropic organization focused on poverty alleviation, youth empowerment, education, healthcare support, and community development. Through the foundation, many individuals and families have benefited from programs designed to create opportunities and improve livelihoods.
Otunba Popoola has also distinguished himself in community service. As Chairman of River Valley Estate, Lagos, he has earned the confidence of residents through his dedication to security, infrastructure improvement, peaceful coexistence, and effective community administration. His reelection for a third consecutive term reflects the trust and confidence placed in his leadership.
Like all of us, he is human and not infallible. However, his enduring qualities of loyalty, generosity, humility, perseverance, and commitment to service continue to leave a positive impression on those who know him.
Through his contributions to business, philanthropy, politics, and community development, Otunba Ademola Popoola has built a legacy rooted in service, friendship, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others. His journey remains an inspiring example of leadership guided by purpose, compassion, and dedication to the common good.
Bankole K. Ajonibadi writes from Kosofe, Lagos.