The Managing Director of UBA Foundation, Mrs. Bola Atta, is mourning the loss of her beloved sister, Lola Adefope née Ayantuga, who passed away recently. Born on September 14, 1962, in London, England, Lola was the daughter of Senator Obafemi Ayantuga and his wife, Ajoke Ayantuga, an accountant. With a career spanning over three decades in public service, Lola served as Secretary to the Local Government in Lagos State and later as Senior Special Assistant in Ogun State. Known for her warmth, infectious laughter, and vibrant personality, she was described as the “life and soul of any gathering.”
Tributes from Former Governors
Otunba Gbenga Daniel
In a heartfelt tribute, former Ogun State Governor Otunba Gbenga Daniel expressed deep sorrow over her passing, recalling her dedication during his tenure as governor (2003–2011).
“I received the news of the passing of Lola Adefope with great sadness and pain,” Daniel said. “As Governor, she served as my Special Assistant on Governmental Affairs (Lagos Office), where she proved herself efficient and diligent.”
“Her death is a stark reminder of life’s fleeting nature and a great personal loss to me and the nation she served passionately.”
Daniel further prayed for her soul to find eternal rest and for her grieving family to find strength.
Senator Ibikunle Amosun
Former Ogun State Governor Senator Ibikunle Amosun expressed shock at the news, describing Lola as a hardworking public servant who brought diligence and dedication to her role as Senior Special Assistant during his administration from 2011 to 2019.
“I recall her service at the Abuja Liaison Office, where she worked diligently. She will be sorely missed,” Amosun stated. “My thoughts and prayers are with the family at these trying times. I pray that the good Lord will comfort and give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
Personal Tribute from Pastor Ituah Ighodalo
Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, in a deeply personal tribute, described Lola as “truly exceptional,” recounting a friendship that began in the UK in the late 1970s and deepened over the decades. He recalled her support when he returned to Lagos and highlighted her kind, cheerful, and discreet nature.
“Lola, we will miss you very very much… you did your best as best as you knew how to do it and you really really worked very very hard,” Ighodalo said.
He also extended heartfelt prayers to her immediate family, including her daughter Mo and husband Adebola Adefope, offering spiritual comfort to the wider Ayantuga and Adefope families.
A devoted wife and mother, Lola married architect Adebola Adefope in 1992, and their union was blessed with children.
Funeral Arrangements
Date: June 23, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM
Venue: Michael and All Angels, Flower Lane, Mill Hill, London
Celebration of Life: Immediately following at Hendon Golf Club, London
Seunmanuel Faleye is a brand and communications strategist. He is a covert writer and an overt creative head. He publishes Apple’s Bite International Magazine.
