In the vibrant and sometimes turbulent theatre of Oyo State politics, there are names that command headlines, and then there are names that command respect. Otunba Joseph Adeseye Famujuro (JAF) belongs firmly to the latter.
Fondly called “Ejika for the Boys”—which translates as The Burden Lifter—Otunba Famujuro has quietly emerged as one of the strongest forces in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a vital pillar of support for the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde.
While many political influencers use their strength to subdue others, JAF has chosen the opposite path:
empowerment. He has uplifted countless young, vibrant, and talented individuals across Oyo State, investing his personal resources and influence in their progress—inside and outside the political sphere.
“He doesn’t just open doors; he makes sure you are equipped to walk through them,” said a young PDP member in Ibadan.
In the recent Federal House of Representatives bye-election for Ibadan North Constituency, Hon.Folajimi Oyekunle Don of the Official Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Nigeria (OyoState) emerged as the winner, Otunba Adeseye Famojuro played a pivotal role. He deployed all his strength, influence, personal resources, and strategic insight to ensure the victory of the PDP candidate. His involvement included mobilizing support, coordinating party stakeholders, ensuring fairness, and maintaining order throughout the election.
By using his networks and leadership skills, JAF ensured that the election was conducted smoothly, enhancing both the credibility of the process and the PDP’s success. This demonstrated his unwavering commitment to democracy, party growth, and community development.
Beyond the election, Otunba Famujuro has become widely respected for his peacebuilding and conflict resolution efforts across Oyo State.
In Bodija Market, he successfully mediated disputes among market leaders’ associations, restoring harmony and ensuring smooth operations.
In the Park Manager System, a body overseeing the public transportation sector, he unified the organization by bringing together all old members of the former NURTW, irrespective of party affiliation
or political loyalties. His efforts restored cooperation, peace, and effective governance within the sector.
These peacebuilding efforts are made possible by the trust and confidence Governor Seyi Makinde places in him, allowing JAF to mediate conflicts and foster unity across communities and
organizations.
These remarkable acts of service reinforce why he is affectionately known as the “Otunba of Source”,
symbolizing a man whose influence brings peace, unity, and progress wherever he is involved.
Despite his towering influence, Otunba Famujuro remains profoundly humble. At public gatherings, he
blends seamlessly with the crowd, almost unrecognizable unless someone points him out.
His trademark smile—known as the smile of peace, prosperity, and progression—is a reflection of his
quiet but powerful impact.
As a close ally of Governor Seyi Makinde, Otunba Famujuro has proven himself a loyal partner in
progress. He does not flex influence to intimidate; rather, he strengthens programs, builds bridges, and
fosters collaboration for the PDP. Among Yoruba people, titles carry deep significance. For JAF, the fitting honor is “Otunba of Source”—a man whose generosity, wisdom, and guidance flow like water, uplifting all who come near him.
Being close to kings may bring prestige, but true greatness comes from being good. By all accounts,
Otunba Joseph Adeseye Famujuro is good at heart, generous in spirit, and visionary in action.
“When you have visionary leaders like Adeseye Famujuro to guide you, and you follow each step with care and discipline, you naturally step into the limelight of your life.” said one admirer.
Otunba Joseph Adeseye Famujuro may not hold an official political position, but his contributions to Oyo State politics, democracy, and peace are undeniable. He is a mentor, a peacemaker, a burden lifter, and a silent architect of progress.
In the story of Oyo’s political evolution, JAF will be remembered not as the man who sought power, but as the man who gave power to others.
Indeed, he is the “Otunba of Source”—a rare gem in politics, a champion of peace, and a leader worth emulating.
