Heaven gained an angel in Mrs Modupe Temitope Dada, she was an astute banker and wife of AFRIMA boss, Mike Dada.
Family, friends and associates stormed the service of songs to celebrate her life of impact on Thursday, October 24, 2024, after a farewell service at the Grace Assembly, Yard 158, Kudirat Abiola Way, Oregun-Ikeja, Lagos State.
The deceased who was to resume as Senior Manager Fidelity Bank, lived a life of purpose and Impact as many governors, Ministers and Lagos social establishment mourned her since the news of her demise at the age 48 broke on Saturday, October 19, 2024.
The banker and wife of the President/Executive Producer of AFRIMA Awards, Mike Dada breathed her last at a private hospital in Lagos after succumbing to an undisclosed medical condition. Sadly, Dupe Dada’s passing has now deepened the existing grief her family was going through following the loss of her mum, few months ago. Madam Veronica Morenikeji Baruwa passed away on July 23, 2024 at Duchess International Hospital, Ikeja Lagos at the age of 83. She has since been buried on October 3rd and 4th in Ijebu Ode.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in his condolence message, expressed deep sadness, saying Modupe was the pillar of support for Dada’s achievements in Africa’s creative communication and media industry.
Sanwo-Olu described the deceased as a woman whose strength was deeply felt, even from behind the scenes.
He urged the husband to take solace in the beautiful legacies of kindness and support of his wife that would continue to live on.
Sanwo-Olu added: “I stand in solidarity with you, sharing your grief and offering our heartfelt condolences. May God grant you and the entire family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.”
Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, also commiserated with the family, saying Modupe led a life of virtue.
Mbah described the Ijebu Ode-born banker as a woman of great character who provided stability and encouragement to her husband, while also building a warm and loving home.
Mbah said, “The late Modupe was a virtuous woman and a pillar of support who played a crucial role in her husband’s career and personal life. Her death has left a significant void not only in your family but also among those who had the privilege of knowing her.
”The people of Enugu share in the grief of your family and pray for strength and comfort during this difficult time.”
Former Governor of Lagos State, Akinwunmi Ambode, who had known Mrs Dada since his days as the state Accountant-General, was among the early callers at Dada’s Ikeja GRA home.
Ambode commended Modupe’s quiet but profound impact on those around her, noting that she was a steadfast partner to her husband, especially in his efforts to promote African music and culture through AFRIMA.
“She was an extraordinary partner and an exceptional woman, whose kindness, compassion, and unwavering dedication to her family will remain unforgettable. The support and partnership she provided throughout your journey were truly invaluable. Her legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us all,” he said
Also in his tribute, the President Ogun Poly Mass Comm Alumni1995/2000 set,Agbaakin Moruff Adenekan on behalf of the class said ‘Modupe belonged to everyone’.
“Our paths crossed with Modupe at the Department of Mass Communication in Ogun State Polytechnic. In later years, we reunited as members of our Alumni. Ever since then, she’s become a pivotal member of our Alumni. Her friendship has been unparalleled. Modupe remained till death one of the pillar of financial support and a key member of our Seed Funding Committee, an initiative to help in uplifting members of the Class who are indigent.
He described her as very humble, which exemplified this a lot.
“We have a culture in our class, we share free airtime at interval, Dupe participated, and she never hesitated to ask for her card even if it’s N500 to show that she is part of the pack.
“She was passionate about Human Capacity Development and Health/Lifestyle of members. She was very supportive of my team to drive this. She donated generously to our HMO initiative set up for indigent members among us. She was always there for Capacity Development and above all she was life of a Party! She never looked down on anyone. She’ll greet a classmate like a classmate, like a day to day friend and like a special human. She may come around later to say ‘Moruff is that person our classmate? Mi o de mo Da’ada o, let me go and greet the person well again”. And I’ll go, “Bawo ni Omoluwabi se nki Eniyan again?!
“A golden heart stopped beating; hard working hands and mind went to rest. God took you to further prove to us, HE only giveth life and taketh at will without questions. Again, “Olohun O ṣe’bi.” He only takes the best.
“The tributes in our class have been heartbreaking. It is full of beautiful stories and memories with Dupe.
“Indeed, we plan and God the almighty plans. He is the best of planners. Again, Dupe’s death will leave a deep vacuum in the class. Dupe will be sorely missed,” he wrote.
The list of dignitaries who had paid condolence visits to the home of Dada included a former Minister of Information, Lai Muhammed; former Group Managing Director of First Bank Nigeria Plc, Dr Bisi Onasanya; the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Department of Training and Development, Frank Mba; media owner and politician, Dele Momodu; Chairman Nigeria Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba and the Chairman of Laralek Ultimate Construction Limited, Mr Olalekan Adebiyi.
Others are: the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotosho; former Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Steve Ayorinde; Executive Director, Sterling Bank, Mrs Tunde Adeola; ex-Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture in Lagos State, Mrs.Uzamat Akinbile-Yusuf; among others
