President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conveyed his deepest sympathies to the Oluwole-Johnson family on the loss of their patriarch, Ben, who passed away recently.
A statement signed by Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, conveyed the president's condolences.
President Tinubu paid special attention to the former Ondo State governorship candidate and current CEO of Benol Management & Development Company, praising him for his intelligence and vision.
The unwavering will and perseverance he displayed mirrored the deep affection that each of us had for Nigeria.
"His boundless energy and determination to better himself, his community, and his nation shone through in his occasional missteps, but it was also a reflection of his lively personality and steadfast dedication."
While remembering their time together in Chicago, Illinois, President Tinubu remarked that "Mr. Ben," as he affectionately called him, never shied away from displaying his intelligence and commercial acumen; he was consistently brilliant.
The President also remembered Mr. Ben's remarkable generosity, mentioning his pivotal involvement in acquiring and providing more than $42 million worth of medical equipment to Nigeria, with a special emphasis on Lagos State.
Despite the work's extensiveness, difficulty, and time-consuming nature, Ben never sought compensation, he pointed out.
In addition, he recalled how Oluwole-Johnson's passion for Nigeria inspired him to seek the office of governor in Ondo State, where he grew up, and how the President and other members of the Nigerian community in Chicago rallied behind him.
"In spite of his failure, his boldness and bravery conferred the cherished title of 'First Lady' upon his revered wife, Moji, in my estimation and among numerous Nigerians."
Despite Ben's deteriorating health, President Tinubu praised his steadfast dedication to Nigeria.
Ben continued to play an important role when a number of us formally established 'The Caring Group' to share our affection for Nigeria, and more specifically, Lagos State.
As his health deteriorated, he remained steadfast in his commitment and supplied his business experience on an ongoing basis. His impact and legacy live on through his beautiful wife, Moji, who stepped in whenever he needed someone to represent him or carry out his intentions.
We find comfort in the wonderful family that Mr. Ben leaves behind, while we will miss him deeply. I pray that he finds eternal peace.
The 72-year-old American business entrepreneur and estate planner died on September 17, 2024, in Crete, Illinois.
The funeral will begin on Friday, and the burial itself is scheduled on October 5, 2024.
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