Chief Olaide Oropo, a popular socialite who ruled the social scene in the 70’s and 80s passed on in the evening Sunday, August 1, just two months to his 80th birthday. The late successful socialite breathed his last at a private hospital in Ijebu-Ode, his proud hometown. The late businessman, who was the toast of leading musicians in the country, especially the likes of Chief Commander, Ebenezer Obey back in their days was reported to have been sick for a while. He lived a good and fulfilled life. He has since been buried on Monday, August 2, at his Ijebu Ode home according to Islamic injunctions. He was to celebrate his 80th birthday on November 6.
The renowned Oropo was well-known in the social circle. Even the younger generation that came after he and his peers dominated the scene, still got to be aware of his name with one of Obey's evergreen songs, 'Board Members' which brought Oropo to limelight. He was in the class of the likes of Alhaji Babs Animas Haun, Bisi Ajala and Bode Osinusi among others who rocked the social/entertainment world with class back then in the southwest.
As expected tributes have been pouring in torrents to celebrate the memories of the departed socialite from high places and everywhere, all attesting to his well-spent life that touched many. A former Governor of Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, who appointed appointed Oropo as the Chairman of the Ogun State Sports Council during his tenure said about the late socialite.."
One of the deceased's acquaintances from way back, AgbaOye (High Chief) Tola Adeniyi, the Jagun Oodua Adimula ll of Yorubaland and Akogun Akile Ijebu wrote in his tribute to the memory of the legendary socialite, wrote.. "A great man, perfect gentleman has passed.My good friend, talks of sharing chilled drinks at your Ijebu Ode residence would now materialize in dreams.... You lived a good life, a worthy life, an impactful life...in service to God and Humanity. Wish you a smooth journey in the Continuum".
Oropo's transition came just three days after the demise of yet another popular socialite and businessman of many decades, Alhaji Buari Alade Oloto. The well-known real estate guru-turned monarch died in the morning of July 29 at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH). He was buried the same day according to Islamic injunctions.
The rich socialite, who has been dominating the Lagos social scene for over 40 years. He was fondly called “Abu Oloto” until he became Oba Oloto last September. It would be recalled that Oloto fought a long battle that lasted 17 years before he could finally bear the crown.
Before he became a monarch, Oloto's name had already become an item on the social scene for decades, with most of the big musicians waxing songs and records in his honour. Late Alhaji Sikiru Ayinde Barrister was one of his favorite longstanding friends.