By Prince Aliu Akeem Chief James Ogungbe, the much-talked-about grandfather of Hon. Princess Damilola, remains a towering figure in the hist...
By Prince Aliu Akeem
Chief James Ogungbe, the much-talked-about grandfather of Hon. Princess Damilola, remains a towering figure in the history of Badagry and Lagos.
In many of her public speeches, the APC gubernatorial candidate consistently celebrates the role and influence of her grandfather in shaping her emergence. This has sparked curiosity and a renewed interest in telling the story of who Chief James truly was.
A prominent personality from Badagry, Chief James moved in elite circles and associated with notable figures of his time, including Shehu Shagari, Obafemi Awolowo, and MKO Abiola. He was born on January 1, 1930, into the humble family of the late Kedara Ogungbe James in Kweme Town.
He began his early education at Apa Local Authority (LA) School, Badagry, and furthered his studies at Salvation Army School, Gboglo (1943–1945), and Ansar-Ud-Deen Government School, Badagry (1946–1952), where he obtained his Standard Six Certificate. He later attended Haro Corporate Training School (1952–1953), earning certification as a Produce Examiner.
In 1953, he started his professional career at Savoy Hotels and later worked as a hotel manager at Chez Peters, Balogun Square, Lagos. Between 1955 and 1956, he was employed at John Holt Limited as a storekeeper and supervisor. By late 1956, he ventured into private enterprise, establishing Liberty Pools Limited—the first indigenous pool business in Nigeria—with its base in Ibadan, Oyo State.
With his experience in hospitality, he went on to establish and successfully manage the Seven Sisters Hotel at Oke-Ado, Ibadan, from the late 1950s until 1965, when he returned to Lagos. During its peak, the hotel became a popular gathering spot for Ibadan elites.
Driven by a passion for service, Chief James entered politics. In 1959, he contested and won the Local Government Election into the Egun-Awori District Council and was subsequently appointed Chairman of the Education Committee.
During the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), he played a significant role in national service by executing several Army contracts, including the supply of foodstuffs to war fronts. These contracts were managed through his companies—C.A.J. Industrial Enterprises Ltd. and Pure Way Corporation Nigeria Limited. Through these firms, he also handled major construction projects across Lagos and Ogun States.
His contributions included building quarters for the Federal Housing Authority in Abuja, railway quarters in Kafanchan, and a 75,000-gallon reinforced concrete water tower for the Nigerian Railway Corporation in Ebute-Metta. He also executed the construction of the Customs Administrative Block, warehouse, and Customs quarters at Seme Border, Kweme Sea Beach, Badagry West LCDA. Additionally, he developed the well-known James Estate in Badagry.
In recognition of his contributions to society, culture, and tradition, Chief James received numerous chieftaincy titles and honours. He was installed as the Depegan of Badagry in 1958 by the late Oba Akran, elevated to the title of Jalatodo of Badagry in 1974, and later honoured with the prestigious title of Togan of Badagry by Oba Babatunde Akran. These titles placed him among the respected members of the Oba’s traditional council.
In 1972, he was appointed Chairman of the Tenement Rate Appeals Tribunal by the then Military Governor of Lagos State. He also served as Treasurer of the Badagry Amateur Football Association (1974–1978) and was appointed Chairman of Lagos State Lacon Company Limited in 1980.
Chief James received numerous awards and recognitions throughout his lifetime. These included a Merit Award from the United African Methodist Church, a Merit Certificate during the 10th Coronation Anniversary of Oba Babatunde Akran, and recognition from the Council of Lagos State Indigenes. He was also honoured by the Institute of Technicians of Nigeria in 1993 and elevated to the position of 2nd Vice President of the United Methodist Church (Eleja) worldwide.
In 1999, Marlborough University, Hawaii, USA, awarded him a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA). He was a foundation member of Egbe Isokan Yoruba and a member of the Lagos State Eminent Citizens group. His travels took him across Europe, America, Sri Lanka, Colombia, and beyond.
Such was his influence and success in business that the Ooni of Ife honoured him with the title “Olowo Badagry,” meaning “the wealthy man of Badagry.”
In 2002, he restored kingship to Kweme Kingdom after several decades of a vacant stool. This achievement did not come easily, as it required a prolonged legal battle, which he eventually won. However, he did not enjoy the throne for long, as he passed away just nine months after his installation. Nevertheless, he left behind a lasting legacy that endures to this day.
His relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was then the Governor of Lagos State, was akin to that of a father and son. They were seen together on several occasions, depicting a strong and cordial bond.
Above all, Chief James Ogungbe was known for his generosity and unwavering commitment to his people. He dedicated his life to uplifting others, reducing poverty, and leaving a lasting legacy of service, leadership, and impact in Badagry.
His life remains a testament to vision, resilience, and purposeful living. Don't hoard this, keep sharing Damilola Sonayon James #badagrytotheworld
Written by Prince Aliu Akeem
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