Veteran estate surveyor and valuer, Biodun Olapade, J.P., has paid tribute to veteran journalist and founder of The Eagle Online, Dotun Samson Oladipo, describing his death as a shocking loss that has left a void words cannot adequately describe.
Olapade said the reality of Oladipo’s death was still difficult for him to accept, recalling that he first learnt of the development on TVC before personally visiting Oladipo’s wife, Olori Taiwo, at their residence.
He described their relationship as one that went beyond ordinary friendship, saying Oladipo related with him as though they were children of the same parents.
According to Olapade, Oladipo’s caring attitude, humility, simplicity, love, sincere family life and concern for others were among the qualities that endeared him to him.
He also recalled Oladipo’s fairness, trustworthiness and reliability, saying he was always willing to assist people who had earned his confidence.
Olapade said Oladipo continued to refer clients to him in his real estate practice until his death and spoke highly of him to people he introduced to him.
He added that through Oladipo’s wide network of friends, clients, links and associations, he had gained many relationships for which he remained grateful.
Reflecting on their friendship, Olapade said he had received far more from Oladipo than his friend could have imagined, adding that Oladipo always wanted the best for him and his firm through his words, actions, recommendations and unwavering support.
Olapade said: “I write these words with a deeply sober heart and reflection. But who am I to question the Almighty God, who called you to His side at the time that pleased Him?”
He said his consolation was in his belief that it was better for the righteous to be taken from the world to be with the Lord than to remain exposed to sin or backslide from the faith.
Olapade said the assurance that they would meet again on resurrection day, never to part, continued to comfort and strengthen him whenever he remembered Oladipo and the relationship they shared.
He said: “My dear friend, your departure has left a void that words cannot adequately describe.
“Nevertheless, I remain grateful to God for the privilege of knowing you, sharing a friendship with you, and benefiting from your kindness and generosity over the years, and knowledge and wisdom despite the age gaps.”
Olapade prayed for Oladipo’s eternal rest and asked God to strengthen his wife, Olori Taiwo, his children, family, friends and others mourning his death.
He said: “Continue to rest peacefully in the bosom of the Lord.
“May Almighty God grant you eternal rest, and may He grant your dear wife, Olori Taiwo, your cherished children whom were bounded with you, family, friends, and all of us who mourn you the strength and grace to bear this irreparable loss.
“Until we meet again on the resurrection morning, my dear friend, rest in peace.”
