Nation
Bola Atta mourns sister’s death as Gbenga Daniel pays heartfelt tribute
Bola Atta, Managing Director of the UBA Foundation, is grieving the loss of her elder sister, Nininlola Adesola Ayantuga Adefope, who passed away recently. Her death has drawn tributes from across the country, including a touching message from former Ogun State Governor, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, who described her passing as a painful personal loss.
Born on September 14, 1962, in London, England, Lola, as she was fondly called, was the daughter of Senator Obafemi Ayantuga and his wife, Ajoke Ayantuga, a professional accountant. She was a seasoned public servant whose career spanned more than three decades, serving notably as Secretary to the Local Government in Lagos State and later as Senior Special Assistant in Ogun State.
Lola was admired for her charisma, warm personality, and ever-present laughter, which many described as the “life and soul of every gathering.”
In a tribute released over the weekend, Otunba Daniel expressed deep sorrow over her passing and paid homage to her commitment and professionalism during his administration from 2003 to 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, resourceful, 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 with passion and grace,” he added.
Daniel also offered prayers for her eternal rest and strength for her family during this difficult time.
Lola Adefope was a devoted wife and mother, married to architect Adebola Adefope in 1992. Their marriage was blessed with children, and she remained a strong pillar in both her immediate and extended family.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family.
