Tribute to Bola Kuforiji-Olubi

Sir: She was circumscribed and circumferenced by two words – GUTS and GUSTO – which pretty much summed up her entire life and endeavours. It was entirely consistent with her character and style to make her exit with a big bang preceded by her magnificent 80th birthday party a few months ago. It would be an understatement to describe her as a combination of brains and beauty.

Rather, we should catalogue her long list of firsts in various spheres of human endeavour – business, accountancy, public service, banking, etc.

She was radiant and vibrant. As for the legion of her admirers (especially women accountants) she was a role model. She forcefully demonstrated that whatever gender barrier had been crafted was no obstacle. It was just another challenge to be vanquished!! As compensation for her exertions she rewarded herself with impeccable taste for travel, fashion and social activities.

Her jewellery and choice of personal relationships are an entirely private matter. She vigorously exercised her freedom to choose, relinquish and terminate on her own terms. Like Frank Sinitra she did it her way and had no regrets. Her life was an open book. She was also a gifted orator and avid reader. Her eloquence bore testimony to her superb command of language.

For several decades she was a dominant player in our nation’s landscape and she did it with consummate elegance and intimidating poise. Her carriage was regal with just a touch of feistiness.

She never offered any apologies for her remarkable success which she firmly attributed to hard work, determination and the grace of the Almighty. In everything she did, she was grand and her good humour was infectious. Figuratively, she was a titan; and metaphorically she was amazing.
May her soul rest in peace.
Bashorun J.K. Randle,
Lagos