A community leader and philanthropist, supports Emure Ekiti through empowerment, business, and his royal heritage
[dropcap]O[/dropcap]tunba Olumide Abegunde was born in Islington, London, under the tutelage of the renowned Hon. (Mrs.) Tinuke Akinwale, a former member of the House of Representatives.
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At the time of his birth, his family was neighbours with her, which forged a strong bond between them. She has always been his godmother and co-nurturer.
Abegunde has built a remarkable legacy rooted in leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to his community.
He began his early education at Abacus Belsize Nursery and Primary School in London before his family relocated to Lagos, Nigeria, where he completed his primary schooling at Twins Nursery and Primary School, Papa Ajao.
He later attended Sanni Luba College in Ijebu Ode before returning to the UK for his university education.
Abegunde earned a Bachelor’s degree in Oil and Gas Business Management from Plymouth University, followed by a Master’s degree in International Business from Bolton University.
After completing his studies, he established a successful private business focusing on car importation, sports items, and real estate investments.
Recognized for his leadership and contributions, Otunba Abegunde holds several chieftaincy titles, including Otunba of Awori Land, Borokini of Ejigbo and Ijan Land, Akinrogun of Ipetu Ilupeju Ijesha, and Bobaguwa of Alakuko.
As a committed philanthropist, Otunba Abegunde has made significant contributions to his hometown of Emure Ekiti.
His initiatives include empowering widows, providing educational amenities for foundational learning, ensuring good learning environments, offering food and support during Ramadan, and donating solar-powered equipment to the Emure Police Station.
He also contributes regularly to the upkeep of the royal palace and supports local development projects.
Otunba Abegunde’s deep-rooted heritage traces back to the Abenimota royal family, with his great-grandfather, Chief Abraham Ibeji Shittu Abegunde, being a prominent cocoa farmer known for his generosity.
His grandmother, late Princess Adesiyan Abegunde (Nee Oshin) is the late Oba Bamidele Oshin’s elder sister. This rich legacy fuels his dedication to Emure’s progress.
Throughout his life, Otunba Abegunde has supported numerous individuals in his community by funding education, healthcare, and other essential needs.
In a regular show of his kindness and selflessness, he has always stated that his posters should be torn and that he should be rebuked if he ever contests for any political position, as he does not consider himself a politician.
This proves that Otunba is not performing these acts for any expected personal gains.
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He continues to stand as a proud defender of Emure’s interests, honouring his role as a prince and a true son of the soil.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator and a recipient of the D9112 Superstar Icon Award, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
