By Prof. Adesoji Adesugba
In Yoruba culture, the proverb “Iyi san ju wura lo” — “Honour is better than gold” — carries profound meaning. It reminds us that the respect and dignity one earns in life often outweighs the fleeting sparkle of material riches. No life exemplifies this timeless truth better than that of the late Dr. Olu Ajayi, a distinguished artist, a man of immense principle, and a revered member of the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity).
Dr. Olu Ajayi, born on 18th August 1963 and transitioned on 23rd May 2025, was not just a master of visual expression — he was a man who lived a life of purpose, modesty, and integrity. His death brought forth an outpouring of reverence that not even kings often receive. His funeral was not marked by gold-plated coffins or extravagant displays of wealth, but by something far rarer — the genuine honour and admiration of thousands.
A Life of Quiet Excellence
Olu Ajayi rose to prominence as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished artists. A native of Ososo in Edo State, his works often explored themes of justice, culture, freedom, and the human condition. For over four decades, his artistry was not just a career but a tool of advocacy. He used his brush like a sword — to fight oppression and challenge injustice.
As a long-standing member of the Pyrates Confraternity, Olu imbibed the ideals of service, justice, and human upliftment. The Association, founded in 1952 by Professor Wole Soyinka and six others, remains committed to fighting societal ills such as corruption, tribalism, and authoritarianism. Dr. Ajayi did not only subscribe to these ideals — he embodied them. Through his art, activism, and personal interactions, he became a moral compass for many.
A Funeral Fit for a King
When Dr. Ajayi was laid to rest in Lagos, what followed was nothing short of historic. Over 1,000 people from across the globe gathered physically to pay their last respects — artists, academics, friends, family, and Seadogs from every region of Nigeria and the diaspora. The Service of Songs at The Bell Campbell Centre and the Funeral Service at New Estate Baptist Church, Surulere overflowed with tributes, songs, and solemn admiration.
Even kings do not always enjoy such honour.
Most strikingly, over 10,000 members of the National Association of Seadogs worldwide paused whatever they were doing to join in coordinated tributes and prayers for Olu’s soul as he was buried. From Australia to Canada, from rural towns to urban centres, Seadogs raised their cups and voices in honour of a fallen brother.
Although Prof. Wole Soyinka was unable to attend physically, he sent his representatives, emphasizing the depth of respect Olu commanded even at the highest levels of the fraternity.
The Pyratical Code: Living Beyond Self
The Pyrates Confraternity has always held iyi (honour) as a core virtue. The fraternity’s ethos, “Against all odds,” calls its members to be upright in a world often driven by personal gain and moral compromise. Olu Ajayi stood as a lighthouse within this brotherhood — humble, visionary, and loyal.
He served not for applause, but for purpose. He didn’t seek titles, yet he was revered by men of title. He didn’t accumulate wealth in gold or real estate, but his investment in people, in truth, and in justice gave him a wealth no thief could steal and no rust could destroy.
His journey reminds us of the words in Proverbs 22:1 — “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
Final Reflections
Dr. Olu Ajayi may have laid down his tools, but his legacy is forever etched — not only in the canvases he painted but in the hearts he touched. He has become a symbol of the triumph of honour over riches.
As we reflect on his life, we must ask ourselves: What will we be remembered for? Not our bank accounts or the cars in our garage, but the kindness in our actions, the courage of our convictions, and the honour in our names.
Indeed, Iyi san ju wura lo.
Olu Ajayi proved it with every breath.
And even in death, he continues to shine.
Dr. Olu Ajayi sails on, not into silence, but into the sea of eternal honour. May his voyage be smooth and his legacy never forgotten.
