…”The Best of Me Has Gone”, AFRIMA President Mourns His Wife
BY ABU-SATAR HAMED
LAGOS, NIGERIA – The President of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), Mr. Mike Abayomi Dada, mourned his wife, Modupe Temitope Dada nee Baruwa, with profound sorrow, saying, “The best of me has gone.”
During the requiem mass, Dada shared how she had been his life’s essential organizer and manager, providing constant support in both his personal and professional pursuits.
Modupe Dada, a respected banker and AFRIMA Vice President, died peacefully on October 19, 2024, at age 48. Her burial on October 24 at Grace Assembly in Oregun, Lagos, was marked by an outpouring of admiration as friends, family, and colleagues gathered to honor her legacy of kindness, service, and selflessness.
Modupe, described as a “jewel of virtue,” was also a committed scholar close to completing her PhD by December 2024. Friends and family members shared memories of her tireless dedication to others, capturing how her life was a testament to compassion and generosity.
In a moving eulogy, Mr. Dada reminisced about the early days of their relationship, recalling Modupe’s unwavering decision to marry him, despite initial family doubts.
He spoke of her beauty and strength, often wondering if he had “mistakenly married an angel” for her otherworldly grace and selflessness.
Mr. Dada recounted instances of Modupe’s unmatched generosity, such as her habit of helping others financially, even at her own expense.
He shared how she stood surety for friends, helped people in need, and forgave those who wronged her – a character defined by love and empathy.
Though heartbroken, Dada accepted God’s will, choosing to reflect on the value of a well-lived life rather than its length.
He expressed gratitude for the time shared with Modupe and the inspiration she provided through her acts of love and service, leaving a lasting impact on countless lives.
Dada noted that he felt the weight of her absence as he sorted through her belongings, which served as bittersweet reminders of her vibrant aspirations, saying, despite her death, Modupe’s drive and ambition were evident. “She was on the verge of completing her PhD and was scheduled to attend a Harvard programme in January 2025.”
He emphasized the importance of living a life of impact, echoing Modupe’s spirit of selflessness and her genuine love for others.
Modupe’s life and influence brought together a diverse group of mourners, including AFRIMA colleagues and prominent leaders.
Her funeral was attended by figures such as former Minister of Information, Lai Mohammed; Dr. Bisi Onasanya, former Group Managing Director of First Bank; Deputy Inspector General of Police, Frank Mba, and President of Nigerian Guild of Editors Eze Anaba, among others.
Messages of condolence poured in from Nigerian leaders, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah and former Lagos Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. Their condolences underscored her widespread influence and the legacy she leaves behind.
The late Mrs. Modupe Dada’s legacy of compassion, dedication, and kindness will continue to inspire everyone who had the privilege to know her, leaving a void but also a path to follow in her footsteps.