Indigenes of Epe, including the Local Government Chairman, Adedoyin Adesanya, have extolled the virtues of late Uthman Habeeb-Ademola, an aide of popular singer, Davido, who died on Tuesday.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the deceased, popularly known as Obama DMW, was the road manager of the popular Nigerian artiste, born David Adeleke.
Many of the indigenes told NAN that Epe had lost a vibrant, supportive and committed indigene.
His friends said he drove himself to the hospital after complaining of breathing problem and reportedly died of heart failure at the Everest Hospital, Lekki, Lagos on Tuesday.
Adesanya said the death of Habeeb-Ademola was a rude shock to him and his administration.
He said late Habeeb-Ademola was until his death dedicated and committed to finding lasting peace in Epe amongst the youths and was an advocate of youth empowerment.
He said: “I commiserate with the Uthman family, his business associates, relatives, friends and well wishers on this unfortunate loss, which happened on June 29, 2021.
“May God forgive his shortcomings and also give his family, friends and associates the fortitude to bear the loss.”
Olufowobi Habeeb-Ademola, a close ally and also an in-law to the deceased, also expressed rude shock on the sudden death of his friend.
Olufowobi said: “I am a member of his youth organisation.
“He was a nice and fantastic man.
“I will miss him dearly, most especially his role in fighting against social vices in Epe Division.”
Olufowobi said the deceased had played his part in developing the youths of Epe Division morally, socially and financially.
He added: “It is left to us, we the youths that he left behind, to emulate his kind gestures.
“He was an ambassador of peace, a lover of unity and a freedom fighter, who liberated some youths in the ancient community from the shackle of poverty and mental slavery.”
Peju Akanji, a family friend, said late Uthman Habeeb-Ademola was one in a million among the youths in Epe community.
She said the deceased fought for freedom, justice, peace and was a supporter of the youths and youngsters.
Akanji added that the deceased was a music lover, who sponsored and promoted budding artistes.
“Late Habeeb-Ademola had his own record label and he had sponsored and promoted several artistes to the world,” she said.
Ayo Salami, a close friend to the deceased, said the vacuum he left behind was yet to be filled.
Salami, also a youth leader in Epe, said the musician was an incredible young man with a heart of gold.
He said: “He has raised several youths from Epe Division to a better living.
“Late Habeeb-Ademola loved to help, a cheerful giver and a socialite.
“We the entire youths of Epe Division will surely miss him so much.”