Family, friends commemorate 11th anniversary of Kola Popoola’s passing

By Abdullateef Fowewe

Family, friends, and well-wishers gathered on Saturday to commemorate the 11th anniversary of the passing of Prince Adeleke Kola Popoola, a former teacher at the Federal Government College, Ilorin and Federal Government College Ogbomosho.

The late Popoola, who died on October 30, 2014, is the father of the Editor of Daily Economy, Nike Popoola.

The virtual event, attended by distinguished personalities from different countries, was filled with heartfelt tributes celebrating his remarkable life, defined by humility, generosity, and deep family values.

Barrister Yemi Kasali, who was mentored by Popoola from a young age, described him as “my best teacher,” highlighting the late educator’s impact in shaping his integrity and discipline throughout his academic journey.

Guest lecturer, Dr. Usman Akanbi, President of the Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA) and founder of the Imodoye Writers’ Enclave, Nigeria’s first writers’ residency in the North, recalled how Popoola, his secondary school teacher at the Federal Government College, Ilorin, treated every student like his own child and described him as “a very disciplined individual.”

Family members and friends shared similar sentiments.

The first son, Yemi Popoola, recounted his father’s unwavering commitment to children’s education and his generosity in paying school fees for less privileged students.

In-law, Idowu Enilolobo, remembered Popoola as a man of “integrity” and “selflessness,” fondly recalling how Popoola personally cooked for him during a visit.

A family friend, Adewale Haastrup, said Popoola “treated me like his child” and always offered fatherly advice, praying that “his legacy will live forever.”

The event also featured songs by Nike Popoola, who sang her father’s favorite hymns, those he used to sing during the family’s morning and night devotions. She described him as a man who deeply loved God.

In honor of their late father, the children announced plans to establish a scholarship program for students of Ila Grammar School.

Tope Enilolobo, one of Popoola’s daughters, concluded the ceremony by expressing gratitude: “Thank you all for being part of this meaningful day.”

The gathering reaffirmed that Kolawole Popoola’s legacy of love, discipline, and generosity continues to inspire everyone who knew him.