by Moshood Adebayo
For Mrs. Oluwafunmilayo Opanubi-Alasholuyi, General Manager, Ereke Paints, Ojodu-Abiodun, Ogun State, receiving the sad news of the death of her father, Prince Abiodun Afolajimi Opanubi, was a devastating news.
Until his death on July 14, 2016, Opanubi, who would have been 76 last Thursday was the chairman/chief executive officer of one of the paint industry. She is the first child:
“My father’s death came so sudden, I never expected it so soon. I thought he would live up to 80 like his father. Man proposes, God disposes. I have even bought his 80th birthday, which he would have marked in three years’ time.
“We thank God for his eventful life, particularly in area of philanthropy. My father was such a generous person that he would give out all what he had to please others.
“I would say he was too generous to a fault, even though he usually explained to me that a cheerful giver never lack. He was such a person who would not want people around him to suffer.
“The memories of how he related with his workers until his death will linger as I will strive to emulate him. My father was not just a boss, but a leader, who carried his subordinates along in decision making.
He gave us the best education both in overseas and in Nigeria. He also showed us the right path in life, asking us not to depend or believe in anything than the Lord Jesus Christ. He put us on the right path.
“He taught us about life, he was a cheerful giver. There were times, he would not have much on him, but he would always deny himself and gave out the little he had.
“Dad was not just a boss, but a team leader, who always asked for the contributions of all before he took the final decision. I will miss him, we will miss him greatly, but I pray God for his peaceful transition.”
Admitting that her father left a big vacuum that would be difficult to fill in the company, she prayed God to give her the strength and courage to move the company forward.