by Top Nollywood filmmaker, Temitope Duker, recently laid her father to rest in Lagos. The burial ceremony was a grand and dignified affair, reflecting the esteemed legacy of the late Hon. Magnus Ayodele Benjamin. The events spanned three days, commencing with an evening of Fanti Night of Tributes hosted by the Lafiaji Fanti Development Association on July 9, 2024. This was followed by a service of songs and wake-keeping at the Wesley Cathedral, Olowogbowo, Lagos, on July 10. The funeral proceedings included a lying in state at the family residence on Lewis Street, Lagos, before the final service and interment at Ikoyi Cemetery.
The reception took place at the renowned Yoruba Tennis Club on King George V Road, Onikan, where distinguished guests from various spheres such as politics, high society, entertainment, and more came together to bid farewell to Hon. Magnus Ayodele Benjamin. Notable attendees included Senator Anthony Adefuye, Hon. Desmond Elliot, Hon. Olanrewaju Afini, Chief Deji Demazio, Chief Shonaloju, Dr. George O’ben-Etchi, Mr. Akex Eyengho, Tilewa Adebajo, as well as prominent figures from the Nigerian entertainment industry like Norbert Young, Sonny McDon, Ejike Asiegbu, Biola Adebayo, Damola Olatunji, Doyin Aggrey. Other prominent figures from the Nigerian entertainment industry, including filmmaker Francis Onwochei, Chidi Nwokeabia, Sam Uche, veteran actress Ronnie Dikko, Daisy Madu Chikwendu, former DGN president Bond Emeruwa and his wife, award-winning director of “Super Story” Patience Imobhio, actor and award-winning comedian Gbenga Adeyinka, as well as the founder of the BON Awards Seun Oloketuyi, CEO Digital Interactive Media Sola Fajobi, Funsho Arogundade, Victor Ganzallo, Otunba Tope Oyefeso, Lagos lawyer and Social Commentator Bosun Osifowora, among many others.
The event was hosted by veteran actress Abiola Atanda and filmmaker Kolade Kadesh Prince, making it a truly memorable occasion to honor the late Hon Ayodele Benjamin. Born on February 17, 1946, in Lagos, Ayodele, fondly known as Ayo, was the fourth of five children of the late Pa George Oladipo Benjamin. Throughout his life, Ayodele Benjamin made significant contributions to his community, serving as the chairman of Lagos Island Local Government in 1988 under the Zero Party arrangement, as well as holding positions as the publicity secretary and treasurer of the old Social Democratic Party.
Before his passing on June 12, 2024, Ayodele Benjamin had a diverse and accomplished career. As an athlete, he proudly represented Lagos at the All-Nigerian Sports Festival and went on to play for the renowned Lagos ECN team that defeated Ashanti Kotoko in 1965. Prior to his foray into politics, he served as the General Accountant of the Nigerian Cotton Board in Kano and Funtua, showcasing his multi-faceted talents and dedication to public service.
Ayodele Benjamin is survived by his wife, Waleola, and his only daughter, Temitope Duker, leaving behind a legacy of service, athleticism, and community involvement that will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
The event was a testament to the impact and influence of the late Hon. Magnus Ayodele Benjamin on his community and beyond.
