Painter, art advocate Olu Ajayi goes home eternally

Starting from Thursday, June 26, with a Service of Songs to be held from 5 pm at the Bell Centre on Campbell Street, near his favourite creative jaunt, Freedom Park, Lagos, the second and final event will climax with the final service to be held at the Nw Estate Baptost Church on Adisa Bashua street, Surulere

A native of Ososo, Akoko Edo LGA, Edo State, Olu Ajayi was born on August 18, 1963 and graduated from Auchi Polytechnic with a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Fine Arts in 1984… he was just about defending his doctoral dissertation at the University of Benin when he fell ill suddenly…

OLU Ajayi, the master painter, art activist and culture advocate, who passed on May 23 after a bout of illness that confined him to the hospital bed for months, proceeds on his final journey home this week in a 2-day programme of events

Starting from Thursday, June 26, with a Service of Songs to be held from 5 pm at the Bell Centre on Campbell Street, near his favourite creative jaunt, Freedom Park, Lagos, the second and final event is the funeral service to be held at the New Estate Baptist Church on Adisa Bashua Street, off Falolu, Surulere. Interment followed after, while receptions will also be staged.

Aged 61, Ajayi, a native of Ososo, and 1984 graduate of painting from Auchi Polytechnic, both in Edo State, Olu was just about defending his doctoral dissertation at the University of Benin when he fell ill suddenly and was hospitalised in Benin. He was later brought to St Nicholas Hospital in Lagos, where he spent the rest of his time on Earth. Interestingly, the artist is embarking on his final journey in the Bell Centre, which is just next door to the hospital where he breathed his last!

Olu was a prodigious creative workforce with a huge volume of works that featured in numerous solo and group exhibitions at home and across several countries including in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Italy, France and many others.

Also an astute art activist and vocal advocate for a better environment for the creative arts, Olu was a key figure in the “Colour Particularisation” group — a club of deftly experimentalism artists from the Auchi school that reshaped the face and fortune of the Lagos and Nigeria’s visual arts scene in the early 90s. Led by Edwin Debebs, the group also included such eminent painters and colour theorists as Sam Ovraiti, Ikoro Emmanuel, Ekpeni Emmanuel, Toni Okujeni, Osazuwa Osagie, Ben Osaghae, Pita Ohiwerei, Lessor Jonathan and Alex Nwokolo. Their debut exhibition “Visions in Colour,” held  September 23-30, 1990 at the former Ikoyi Hotel, Lagos, shot some adrenalin into the spines of the Lagos art scene.

Olu made his impact felt in the Lagos scene as he emerged as one of the most productive members of the group with regular exhibitions and participation in the city’s throbbing art pulse, especially. The height of his feasibility was perhaps when he became the Chairman of the Society of Nigerian Artists, SNA- Lagos, and worked assiduously to change the profile of the organisation that had been struggling to breathe since its founding in 1981. Those in his exco then, and especially functional members of the SNA, testified to his high sense of service and commitment to the goals and desires of the organisation. He was credited with initiating several programmes that shore up the pubic perception and entrenched presence of the organisation in the Nigeria culture landscape. One of such is the “October Rain”, an annual conceptual exhibition that brought members of the association out in a large-scale, robustly engaging group exhibition. He also initiated the Art Cafes project which became a fruitful  meeting point of artists and their patrons in convivial atmosphere different from exhibition rooms. His tenure also witnessed closer collaboration with, and better business relationships between artists and gallerists. Prior to then, the exhibition scene, though with a lesser number of galleries than now, was a field of constant grumblings by either side, with rampant reports of sour deals and conflicts of egos and interests.

Always a focused and determined administrator, Ajayi  leading his Exco, indeed worked hard to clean off many of the red lines that created the tensions between the artists and their patrons. They also initiated schemes to tame the preexisting cold war between the younger and older generations of  artists. His successors in office have also given him credit for establishing a firm base for the association, even as he was said to have stepped on some toes of interests due to his strong no-nonsense posturing as an administrator.

His membership of the Guild of Fine Artists, GFA, consisting of artists of his generation further exposed his work to new set of collectors. He as a trustee of the Guild and members testify to his contributions as a man of ideas and a strategist fir the advancement of the guild and the profession.

However, the most enduring legacy of Olu Ajayi is the periodic The Legend Series, a unique visual arts documentary concept, in which he convoked a collection of artists, his friends and colleagues, to do live painting or drawing of a living culture icon. Co-produced with his friend, Eki Eboigbe, a theatre and social worker, TLS, as he fondly called it, was launched in 2008. The setting was usually in a reality-show pattern with the chosen icon sitting on a pedestal, while the artists drew or painted his image from any angle, and in any style they desired. He had planned to bring out all the drawings in a massive exhibition showcase in future. He always dreamt of the 10th edition of the project, and he had variously disclosed that he desired to have Dr Newton Jibunoh as his subject. Jibunoh’s legacy project, DIDI Museum, had been his supportive partner since the project was born. He wanted the Octogenarian art Patron to be the Special Guest of Honour for the milestone edition.

TRIBUTES

 A visionary of the Arts

(Tribute by the Society of Nigerian Artists, SNA)

THE passing of (Dr.) Olu Ajayi marks the end of a profoundly impactful era in the Nigerian art landscape. A man of great vision, passion, and dedication, (Dr.) Ajayi was not only an accomplished artist but also a transformational leader and a tireless art administrator whose legacy will forever echo through the corridors of the Society of Nigerian Artists (SNA), particularly in the Lagos State Chapter where he served as Chairman.

Under his leadership, the SNA Lagos Chapter experienced a renaissance — one rooted in community, artistic excellence, and institutional strengthening. (Dr.) Ajayi was more than an administrator; he was a torchbearer whose commitment to uplifting fellow artists was unmatched. His tenure was defined by bold initiatives, inclusivity, and an unwavering belief in the power of art to shape society and identity.

A man of countless achievements in the field of visual arts, (Dr.) Olu Ajayi combined technical mastery with a keen sense of cultural responsibility. His works rich in meaning, technique, and philosophical depth, speak of a life lived in deep engagement with the world around him. Yet, it was not just his artistry that defined him, but also his humility, mentorship, and the many lives he touched along the way.

As we mourn his loss, we also celebrate a life that burned brightly in service to the arts and to the Nigerian creative community. His memory will remain a source of inspiration for generations of artists and art lovers to come. His legacy is etched not only on canvas but also in our hearts, in institutions, and in the vibrant spirit of the Nigerian art movement he helped to nurture.

On behalf all members of the Society of Nigerian Artists (Lagos State Chapter), we wish our brother, and Professional colleague a safe journey to the Higher Realm.

May the soul of (Dr.) Olu Ajayi rest in perfect peace, and may his enduring contributions continue to inspire us all.

• SNA. Lagos Executive Council

*******

*****

A vocal advocate for the arts

(Tribute by Committee for Relevant Art, CORA)

THE news of Olu Ajayi’s transition to the hereafter struck members of the Nigeria artistic community like a poisonous arrow, piercing deeply and leaving behind excruciating pains and a void that’s irreparable.

However short-lived the joy of his company, we are grateful to God for the privileges of life.

The Committee for Relevant Art, CORA, in particular misses his comradeship in our family. We’ll miss his cherished contributions to our prime project, the Lagos Book & Art Festival, LABAF, where he featured in, and as well as advised on curatorial ideas and directions. He was a remarkable vocal contributor to many of our discourses at the festival, and other programmes such as the quarterly ART STAMPEDE, and the periodic ARTHOUSE Forum.

Among his immediate family, friends, associates and the entire art world where he strode confidently, Olu Ajayi stylishly lived and radiated effulgent brilliance.

He was a complete gentleman, prim and proper, possessing an uncommon debonair disposition. Olu was that versatile. Beyond painting, he could discuss several topics easily seasoned with an avalanche of adventurous stories drawn from experiences garnered from different cultures and social milieus. His company availed rich tapestry of profound knowledge and invaluable life lessons to learn, some of which left a sweet aftertaste to be revisited with a smile on the face.

At a time the bad news of death was rife, it was nevertheless a rude shock upon hearing of his passage few weeks ago.

Olu was beloved by all and sundry and had a charming charisma that endeared him to everyone. He was a man endowed greatly with both inner and external appeal.

Is it true that good things don’t last? “Death is a necessary end…” We that are still here wish Olu Ajayi a peaceful, eternal repose in the great beyond!

*******

A master of the canvas

(Tribute by DIDI Museum)

THE Trustees and management of Didi Museum is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Dr Olu Ajayi, a valuable member of our circle of patrons and friends.

We are honoured to celebrate the life and legacy of Olu Ajayi — visionary artist, mentor, art administrator, and passionate culture advocate.

Olu Ajayi was not only a master of the canvas but also a man whose creative spirit breathed life into the Nigerian art ecosystem. He painted not just with colours, but with memory, rhythm, and soul. His brushstrokes echo stories of identity, resilience, and beauty that resonated far beyond the surface of his works.

More than an artist, Olu was a partner in vision. Over the years, he worked and walked closely with Didi Museum, believing in its mission to nurture and showcase the richness of African creativity. His presence in our halls was never passive — he actively contributed to our exhibitions, gave freely of his wisdom to younger artists, and continually lent his voice to elevate the museum’s efforts in curating the future of Nigerian art.

We remember fondly his legacy project, THE LEGEND SERIES, through which he documented and celebrated the life and legacies of selected icons of Nigeria’s cultural life. Dr Ajayi insisted that Didi Museum is the right legacy institution to host such a venture, and he stayed committed to that faith till his end. He was, in fact, in the throes of staging another edition of the project, which he executed with his friends and associates, when he fell ill and eventually departed. We will miss this invaluable contribution to the DIDI tradition.

In his unwavering support for emerging artists, Olu embodied a spirit of generosity that is rare and sacred. He understood that art was not a solitary journey, but a continuum — a dialogue between. And among generations. And so, he stood as a bridge, helping to midwife new voices into visibility while never losing the clarity of his own.

His legacy, like his art, is multidimensional. It lives in the countless works he created, in the artists he inspired, in the cultural institutions he supported, and in the communities he uplifted.

At Didi Museum, we honour Olu Ajayi not just as an artist, but as a beloved brother of the house—a guardian of the creative spirit whose footsteps will forever echo in our corridors. His passing marks the end of a luminous chapter, but his light remains — guiding us, inspiring us, and reminding us of the power of art to heal, to awaken, and to belong.

May his journey into the ancestral realms be peaceful, and may his memory be a blessing to all who encountered his brilliance.

Rest well, Olu Ajayi. You were deeply loved, and you shall never be forgotten.

* Patrick Odimnfe, Head Curator, Didi Museum

******

A brilliant creative force

(Tribute from Mydrim Gallery)

WE are deeply saddened by the passing of Mr. Olu Ajayi, a renowned master artist. He was passionate about the development of the visual arts sector and the well being of Nigerian artists.

Mr. Ajayi, as we fondly called him, was not only a brilliant creative force but also a dear friend of the Mydrim Gallery family.

We are honoured to have been a part of his journey and consider ourselves privileged to have exhibited his captivating and expressive works within our space.

We pray for strength, comfort, and peace for his family, colleagues, and all who were touched by his life and art.

Rest in peace, Master Artist Olu Ajayi. Your legacy lives on.
* Sinmidele Adesanya,  Founder Mydrim Gallery

******

THE passing of Olu Ajayi in the early hours of May 23, 2025, has left a deep void in Nigeria’s artistic and intellectual landscape. Olu was not just a painter—he was a seer with a brush, a philosopher in pigment, and a national conscience who used canvas as his pulpit.

Born in the scenic hills of Ososo in Akoko Edo, Olu’s artistic journey was long and distinguished. With roots planted firmly in the traditions of Nigerian realism and experimentalism, he evolved into one of the most respected visual artists of his generation. His works graced galleries in Nigeria and across the globe — South Africa, Europe, Canada, and the United States — each one bearing witness to his mastery of colour, form, and emotional depth.

But perhaps his most enduring artistic legacy lies in his deep connection with Nobel laureate Professor Wole Soyinka. No other artist has captured Soyinka in as many moods, moments, and meanings as Olu did. Through his celebrated “Living Legends” series, which began in 2008, Olu sought to visually immortalise national icons — Soyinka chief among them. These portraits weren’t mere likenesses; they were layered tributes, breathing with history, protest, and reverence. For this, Olu became widely recognised as Soyinka’s visual chronicler.

He was also a man of deep intellect. Our paths crossed often in the mid-1990s, when he would arrive at my home or my Remilekun Street office, armed with a painting he was sure I couldn’t resist. He was almost always right. His lines spoke truth. His strokes summoned rebirth. Olu’s visits were never just about art—they were about ideas. Every session ended in long, probing conversations about Nigeria, justice, politics, and the future. It was in these conversations that his brilliance shone just as brightly as it did on the canvas.

A loyal friend, Olu was forthright, unpretentious, and passionate. He was a passionate member of the Pyrates Confraternity and an unwavering advocate for its ideals. When the idea of documenting the Confraternity through film came up, especially an interview with Cap’n Blood, Olu was my immediate and obvious choice. Sadly, the project never came to fruition before he took ill. In December 2024, just weeks before we were to begin, he suffered a stroke that he would never recover from. At the time, he was on the cusp of defending his PhD in Fine Art at the University of Benin — a goal that reflected his restless desire to grow, to contribute, to master his craft even further.

Throughout his illness, his beloved wife Priscilla stood by him with the strength and grace that only true love can summon. To her and to his children, I offer my deepest condolences. May you find comfort in the pride of his legacy and in knowing that Olu lived a life that mattered.

Nigeria has lost a cultural titan. The world has lost a rare talent. I have lost a brother.

Rest in peace, Olu Ajayi—the great artist from Ososo.
You saw deeply. You painted truly. You spoke fearlessly.
And now, you sail into immortality.

• Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, MD/CEO of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) is an investment promotion professional and member of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON).

******

…Consumed with passion for justice, art and social impact

(By Awam Amkpa)

WE traveled across oceans, obsessed about art and consumed with passion for justice, art and social impact. This brother, this Pyrate, this devoted family man has made a significant mark and his star will always blaze our skies with joy and gratitude that we met and spent a good life with him. We will meet again!

• Awam Amkpa, professor of Culture Aesthetics, is Vice Provost New York University, Abu Dhabi

******

A brush with Brilliance

(Dr. Lawrence Omokhudu Ekhaiakhu)

THE Nigerian art world, and indeed the global creative landscape, profoundly felt the loss of Dr. Olu Ajayi – an artist of unparalleled talent and a personality of quintessential charm. Dr. Ajayi was more than just a painter; he was a storyteller, a cultural ambassador, and a mentor whose influence stretched far beyond the canvas.

His works, often vibrant and evocative, captured the essence of Nigerian life, history, and spirituality with a unique blend of realism and profound emotional depth. Dr. Ajayi’s mastery of various mediums, from oil to watercolor, was evident in every stroke, reflecting a tireless dedication to his craft and an unyielding pursuit of artistic excellence.

Dr. Olu Ajayi was a native of Ososo, in Akoko Edo LGA of Edo State, Nigeria. He came from a large, close-knit, and proud family where hard work, perseverance, and faith in God has always led them.

Beyond his prolific artistic output, Dr. Olu Ajayi was renowned for his warm demeanor, infectious humor, and intellectual curiosity. He engaged with everyone, from family members, friends, fellow artists to eager students and casual admirers, always offering insights, encouragement, and a ready smile. His presence was always a beacon of light, inspiring creativity and fostering a deep appreciation for the arts.

Dr. Olu Ajayi leaves behind an indelible legacy – not just in the breathtaking body of work he created, but in the countless lives he touched and the artistic spirit he ignited in others. He was, truly, an iconic artist and a quintessential personality whose brilliance will continue to illuminate generations to come.

His affectionate relationship with towering Nobel laureate, Wale Soyinka can attest to the fact that, while they moved in different artistic spheres (visual art vs. literature), they shared a common ground in their dedication to promoting Nigerian culture and their profound impact on the nation’s intellectual and creative identity.

Adieu brother.

• Dr. Lawrence Omokhudu Ekhaiakhu

******

*******

The Master Colourist, Philosopher Painter

(By Orobosa Omo-Ojo JP)

OLU Ajayi was an excellent Nigerian professional artist, painter, cartoonist, and art reviewer, with experience lasting over 40 years in studio practice and Art administration.

He served Nigeria as chairman of the Society of Nigerian Artists, Lagos State chapter and was a trustee of the Guild of Professional Artists of Nigeria. 

This departed genius was part of the 1980 class of the School of Arts and designs, Auchi Polytechnic. Olu was so good even in our introductory General Arts Class that his course mates—including me (Orobosa) will abandon our boards and donkeys to watch him perform magic with any medium—pastel, pen, pencil, watercolour and even markers.

Four years down the line, he graduated with distinction—winning the best price.

Olu quickly became a Merveric painter, with a believable sense of knowledge arrogance, that reminded art collectors of the famous 18th century renaissance artists like Fillipo Brunelleschi, Donatello, Jan van Eyck and others.

For obvious reasons, I quickly realised that he was heading for stardom and saved to collect few of his works along with some of my other course mates who specialized in sculpture. Few years on, Olu works became much sort after—he became a ‘deity’, his works became rarely available for collectors.

We maintained a mutual respectful relationship, especially as both of us were critical observers of a confused Nigerian society—always stretching subjects to their elasticity ends. Olu will raise a topic and sometimes stresses me to near snapping only to say: “Ojo, you too much.” Such was his level of intellectual strength.

His visit to the Tribal Heritage Centre, which I founded in Benin City, would always end up in painting clinics. Olu was such a motivator and effective mentor to both his friends, young and old.

“I hear say you get Osaghae paintings for here”, Olu oppressivelly asked asked me at another visit to @tribalheritagecentre. Yes! I showed him two framed paintings. How much? Olu asked. He eventually bought the two jobs and few days after, another great painter, Humble Igbinigie broke the news of Osaghae’s death in Lagos.

By the time I reached out to Olu to buy back Osaghae’s paintings, he was in Rome with the paintings and asked me to forget the offer I made to have them back. Such was the tenacity he brought into what I call ‘Artivism’.

When I went back to studio painting some years back, Olu assumed the role of my critic free of charge. We will spend hours online casting titles for my paintings.

Olu Ajayi (r), Orobosa Omo-Ojo during his visit to Museum House Benin City in 2020

I was glad when he started his Doctorate program at the University of Benin, because I thought his closeness will avail me opportunity to be his ‘studio assistant’ and by extension, glean one or two works, I was wrong. Even those with deep pockets must work hard to acquire Olu’s tiniest pieces.

One day, from nowhere, he phoned me…”Ojo, where you dey? I wan dash you something.” He came over to the Museum House at Tribal Heritage Center and sold a radical abstracted oil on canvas work to me at discounted cost.

In 2024, I sold that work to Chief Dan Orbih, the ardent art collector along with other priceless paintings and bronze works. In one of his visits to my Benin City office, he saw one of his works that I bought from him in 1992 when his studio was at the National Art Gallery, Igunmu, Lagos. The oil on board landscape painting depicts marauding herdsmen. We were still negotiating a buy-back terms before his sudden demise.

We did not agree on all fronts. Like with all eccentric opinionated scholars, we argued severally on the issues of good leadership, national failures and reminded ourselves of the good days. We argued most morning, especially after clicking on Midwest Herald link to read a story that defended any overtly misfit politicians.

“Ojo, you are more than this,” Olu will say. When I accepted the offer from Senator Monday Okpebholo to become his spokesman as Director of Publicity for the APC Governorship Campaign in Edo State, my relationship with Olu strained. He spared no ‘rod’ to remind me where I was coming from and for our mutuality in progressive governance, I understood his concerns, but assured him that, all will be well.

When our mutual friend, Prof John Ogene, Deputy Vice Chancellor Emeritus
University of Benin sent a message to intimate of Olu’s health challenges, I was greeted by a sore fear, because of his rigours.

Sadly, my fear became a scarier about six months after.

Olu-men, you were the rarest skillful colourist and scholar who redefined Art as the ‘interpretation’, ‘representation’ and ‘expression’ of ‘forms’—inanimate, life, crazy or normative behaviour and arguments which set you apart from the artist that paints for decorative purposes alone.

Journey well my stoical contemporary impressionist who toiled and left his indelible mark on the global arts society.

The walls of museums and homes around the world will remind those living now, and others to come, that from the rocky hills of Ososo came a brilliant artist and philosopher—’Dr.’ Olu Ajayi!!!

• Orobosa Omo-Ojo, (JP) is Publisher, Midwest Herald; Founder, Tribal Heritage Center; and Museum House Benin City

******

He lived an impactful life of service to others

(By Ugo Eze)

IN the constellation of souls that illuminate our earthly journey, few shine with the incandescent brilliance that was Olu Ajayi. When destiny orchestrated our first encounter early 2022, I could scarcely have imagined that I stood before a colossus of wisdom whose very presence would irrevocably transform the trajectory of my understanding.

Here was a man who possessed that rarest of gifts, the ability to distill years of accumulated wisdom into moments of crystalline clarity. In the span of a single conversation, he achieved what textbooks and lectures could not accomplish across months of toil. His mind was an alchemist’s crucible, transmuting complex truths into pure gold that could be grasped and treasured by eager souls like myself.

Yet for all his towering intellect and revered stature, Olu embodied a humility that was breathtaking in its sincerity. He wielded his influence not as a sword to command deference, but as a bridge to elevate others to his plane of discourse. In his presence, hierarchies dissolved, and we found ourselves not as supplicants before a master, but as fellow travellers on the path of enlightenment, welcomed into the sacred circle of his confidence.

This was no mere facade, it was the authentic expression of a soul untainted by ego. Every person who crossed his path bore witness to this same transformative grace, this same generous spirit that saw potential where others saw limitation, that offered wisdom where others hoarded knowledge.

The world has been diminished by his departure, robbed of a beacon whose light guided countless souls toward their better selves. Yet in our collective memory, in the lives he touched and the wisdom he imparted, Olu Ajayi achieves the only immortality that truly matters, one measured not in years, but in the enduring impact of a life lived in service to others.

May his noble spirit find the eternal rest it has so richly earned, and may we who remain carry forward the flame of his example, illuminating the path for others as he so magnificently illuminated ours.

• Ugo Eze

******

A deep scholar-artist

(By Godfrey Tosanwumi)

IN the down-lit of our days at Auchi Polytechnic, specifically in the Painting Studio of the Faculty of Art and Design, where you were the only graduating Student in the Painting department dreams took flight.

With laughter that warmed the day as you discussed the works of great early Artists like Pablo Picasso, Rembrandt etc despite the fact that I was not an art student but only a marketer of your art works during our brief hard times, during our sour Jon somewhere at College road in Benin city after our ‘egbe’ at Hybrid in Benin City and Warri.
There was no ‘egbe’ as it gave us the required experience to face life.

My bosom friend in jest and extra curricular activities.

Between the lines of textbooks and dreams at night

we mapped our futures under flirting light, I recall your voice, steadfast, clear and true. –
A bright star in the archives of youth

Through corridors of ages past and times apart
Out bond endured – bound by heart to heart
In whispered council over cups of hope and care through the then hard times
You where a friend with wisdom and courage
Your spirit, fierce with intellect and grace
You found strength in art, in justice in truth’s embrace.
A scholar, seer, painter of life’s subtle hues
Each stroke of your brush infused with passion, infused with you
From Ososo’s gentle hills you carried art’s flame.
From the high school halls to life’s enduring game.
Your friendship cherished, gentle, good and kind
A refuge in the passage of time
Though you have sailed beyond the veil
Your essence lingers in skies of radiant blue;
in every canvas, conversation, dream
You live on in the in-between
Rest on brother, ‘rugged man’ in the field of peace, where the – echo’s your
passion never cease
Your legacy – a life of heart felt art
Your spirit – indelible in every heart.
NOTES FOR REFLECTION
• Your courage and insight – forever cherished
• The laughter and earnest talks – priceless
• The promise of your friendship – eternal
Rest on DJM in Elysium with the FGTs till we meet to part no more.
* G.T. Tosanwumi (DJM)

******

A confidant in the truest sense of the word

(By Obuks Akpede)

MY brother, friend, mystic artist, and Jellu DJM, your departure leaves an ache within me. Yet, as I sit to write this tribute, it feels like capturing lightning in words. It brings echoes of memories that refuse to fade, moments that defy the conventional boundaries of friendship but fit perfectly into the rare bond forged.

I will miss our never mundane conversations, diving deep into the web of thoughts and ideas, dancing around art, philosophy, NAS and global events, often losing track of time as the world outside our little bubble whirled by. Our minds were intertwined in a way few could understand, but it was as natural as breathing for us. You were more than a friend; you were a confidant in the truest sense of the word, a man whose love for family and its values were exemplary. Your advice, when given, was always laced with a fatherly warmth and guidance from someone who had traversed paths I was still exploring. Yeah, your style, charisma and infectious smile were profound.

I wish you had more time, but life, as we know, doesn’t always bend to our will. Still, your legacy lives on in the art you left behind and the collective memories you crafted. You may be gone physically, but I am certain you’re still with us, your spirit lingering in the strokes of your art. Your mystic artistry has transcended into its purest form, and I believe it will continue to inspire, provoke, and soothe souls yet unknown.

I wouldn’t say goodbye, but rather “see you in another form”, where our thoughts would once again intertwine like smoke from two different fires. The symphony may have ended, but the music plays on.
* Obuks Akpede

******

He loves to celebrate his little wins…

(By Nike Ajibade)

MR Ajayi as we do call him in our home fellowship Adisa Bashua home fellowship was a gentleman, caring, homely and a good contributor to the discuss at the home fellowship which was usually hosted by his family even before late Mrs Sanusi handed the leadership mantle to Sister Priscilla Ajayi. Except when he was not home, he was always in attendance and never took pride to ask questions of what he did not understand or seek to understand better.

He was a person that love to celebrate his little wins with the fellowship in his little way possible.

He was an encourager. Thank God for his lovely family and his ever caring wife, Sister Priscilla Ajayi. May the Lord continue to be with you and keep the entire family in the hollow of his hands in Jesus name.
Rest on Olu Ajayi. We miss you. Rest on

******

Extraordinarily talented yet humbly  

(By Asani Edo Omozuwa)

I’M still struggling to accept the painful reality that Olu is truly gone. It feels surreal—like I’m caught in a moment I can’t wake from. I truly believed he would pull through, especially after visiting him on the 16th of May. I never imagined that would be the last time I would set eyes on him.

Our paths first crossed in 1994—31 years ago—when he was commissioned to create a portrait of Professor Wole Soyinka for his 60th birthday. The portrait was nothing short of a masterpiece. From that moment, our bond was sealed — not just because we were both Pyrates, but because of the extraordinary talent he carried so humbly.

I’ll always treasure the two paintings he gifted me around 2022 – a heartfelt gesture of appreciation after I gave his Master’s thesis in Fine Art a careful read. They hang proudly in my living room, radiating the spirit of tradition and culture in their purest form — silent, vivid reminders of the depth of his artistry and soul.

What more can I say, other than to bid you:
“Sayle on blissfully in Elysium, DR, around the eternal bonfire with the foregone terrors of the high seas—until that day, when we meet again to sayle for eternity.”
Fair winds, my brother. You are deeply missed.

******

A beacon of the ‘artful seas’

(By Imariabe Ero)

DR. Olu Ajayi, a Master of the Canvas.
Hoist the colours high mates, for we’ve lost a true beacon of the artful seas, Dr. Olu Ajayi. This great artist, this senior friend, this beacon of inspiration, sailed through life with a brush for a compass and a heart full of boundless creativity. His canvases were uncharted waters, each stroke a bold adventure, painting worlds where colours danced like waves under a crimson sunset.

DR, you were a lighthouse to us all, guiding young bluders and old hands alike through the stormy tides of doubt. Your laughter was the wind in our sails, your wisdom the stars we steered by. You taught us to chase the horizon, to wield our craft with courage, and to never fear the deep unknown of creation.

Though you’ve weighed anchor for that eternal shore, your legacy rides the crest of every wave you stirred. Fare thee well SWT! May your spirit paint the skies with glory, and may we, inspired by your Tsunami worstest lead, sail on heads high.

*****

Further Readings

https://www.vanguardngr.com/2015/04/olu-ajayi-tasks-in-coming-govt-to-prioritize-art/

‘We hope exhibitions will peak this year’