Tribute to Chief Olufemi Majekodunmi

The name Majekodunmi, meaning "Let my year not be spoiled," carries a profound history for the Majekodunmi family of Abeokuta, Nigeria. The lineage traces back to Ogundele, son of Ogundipe, who adopted the name after the tragic death of his child. This adoption of a new name following a significant life event is a practice rooted in Egba oral history.

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Let my year not be spoiled/ let sorrow not ruin my year.

This tradition of taking a name after a defining moment was exemplified by Ogundele's ancestor. After his child tragically died from a fall while learning to ride a horse, the father displayed remarkable composure. Instead of succumbing to grief, he continued his business with fierce determination, refusing to be overcome by despair. This dignified response led to "Majekodunmi" becoming his widely recognized sobriquet and name.

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Majekodunmi became both his sobriquet and name.

More recently, the name's significance was highlighted during the funeral of Chief J.B Majekodunmi, Femi Majekodunmi's grandfather, in 1955. His son, Chief (Dr) Moses Adekoyejo Majekodunmi, invited Bashorun J.K Randle's father to the grand event. Following the funeral, Chief Majekodunmi gathered family members and, using a newly available tape recorder, played a deathbed message from the departed patriarch. The message urged peace and unity among his children, specifically forbidding litigation over his estate. This use of nascent technology on a deathbed message caused panic, with many believing the deceased had returned from the dead.

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He pleaded for peace and unity amongst all his children. There must be no litigation or squabbles over his vast estate.