It was more than a funeral. It was a gathering that felt like a festival of gratitude.
Between February 13 and 14, people from across Ekiti State and beyond assembled to celebrate the life of Chief Daniel Adedayo Ogboja, fondly known as Daddy Ogboja. The event drew clergy, political leaders, former students and community members who came not only to mourn, but to honour a man many described as a moral compass of his generation. The New Daily Prime was there to cover the ceremonies.
The service was attended by Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu and other prominent Methodist archbishops from across Nigeria. The Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, and former Governor of Ekiti State, Engr. Segun Oni, were present, alongside traditional leaders, educationists and members of the Osi-Ekiti community.
The central message of the service was drawn from Psalm 90:12: “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” Preachers returned repeatedly to the verse, reminding the congregation that life is limited and must be lived with purpose. They said Daddy Ogboja’s 95 years on earth reflected a man who understood that principle.
Born on February 25, 1930, into the Asha Family of Iwaro Quarters in Osi-Ekiti, Chief Ogboja rose to become one of the most respected educationists of his era. After elementary education, he earned a BA (Hons) in History from the University College, Ibadan, in 1961. That qualification marked the start of a career that would shape thousands of young lives.
He served as principal in several prominent secondary schools, including Amoye Grammar School, Ikere; Ilesha Grammar School; Oduduwa College, Ile-Ife; Ondo High School; and Methodist Comprehensive High School, Aaye Ekiti. Former students recalled strict discipline, high standards and a culture of excellence wherever he served.
In 1980, the Ondo State Government named him one of the first six “Special Principals,” a recognition reserved for outstanding administrators. He retired in 1986, but his influence did not retire with him.
Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, one of his former students, described him as a man of strong character and impeccable intellect. According to the governor, he was quiet but firm, a leader whose silence commanded respect. He said the state had lost a father figure and a model of the golden era of educational discipline.
At home, tributes flowed from family members. His wife, Mrs Iyabode Adeyosola Asolo, described him as intelligent, hardworking and kind. She said he was not a man of many words, yet his actions spoke clearly.
His daughter, Pastor Mrs Yejide Olufeye, called him a hero and a man of purpose. She recalled how he ensured all his children were educated, not because he was wealthy, but because he believed in sacrifice. “He did not dictate how to live,” she said, “he lived and let us watch.”
His son-in-law, Olufemi Oluleye, said he was welcomed into the family as a son, not an outsider. He described Daddy Ogboja as a man of family, loyalty and integrity who led by example.
Beyond education and family, he was instrumental in attracting development to Osi-Ekiti, including electricity, pipe-borne water and improved access to secondary education. His service extended into the Methodist Church in Nigeria, where he remained active and respected.
He is survived by six children, 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.
As hymns filled the church and tributes echoed through the town, one theme remained constant: a life well numbered is a life well lived. For many in Ekiti and beyond, Daddy Ogboja’s days were not just counted — they were used wisely.
