The news of the untimely death of Kazeem Olajide Babajide Tinubu, first son of former Lagos State Governor and APC national leader, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, shocked many Nigerians. Described as intelligent, vibrant, and deeply private, Jide Tinubu passed away on October 31, 2017, leaving behind a young family and a legacy that many are only just beginning to recognize.
A Father’s Tribute to His Son
In a heartfelt statement personally signed by Asiwaju Tinubu, he confirmed the passing of his eldest son and expressed deep gratitude to Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious lines who offered condolences.
“My son was a highly intelligent person with a vibrant personality and a zest for life. He followed his own course and made his own way on his own terms… Yet, he was taken away by cardiac arrest when it seemed he had so much life to still live.”
Tinubu emphasized the importance of embracing love, compassion, and humanity — values his son lived by — urging Nigerians to treat each other with kindness and unity.
Who Was Jide Tinubu?
Despite being the son of one of Nigeria’s most influential politicians, Jide Tinubu maintained a relatively low profile. Here are seven key facts about his life and career:
1. Birth and Age
- Jide Tinubu was born on October 12, 1980, and died on October 31, 2017, at the age of 37.
2. Education
- He studied Law at the University of Liverpool, England.
- He went on to obtain a Master’s degree in Maritime Law from the University of London.
- He was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1999.
3. Professional Career
- He worked in the Legal Department of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited from 2000 to 2001.
- He also had work experiences with:
- Cargo Maritime (Paris, France), a petroleum tanker brokerage firm
- Ocean and Oil Services Ltd.
- He served as a Promoter of TSL Limited, contributing to maritime and logistics development.
4. Private Lifestyle
- Despite his father’s high political status, Jide was not active in politics and kept a low public profile.
- He lived most of his life in London, where he also raised his family.
5. Sudden Death
- Jide reportedly collapsed around 9 PM on Tuesday, October 31st, 2017.
- He was said to have died from a suspected cardiac arrest.
6. Family Life
- He left behind a loving wife and three young sons in London.
- Tinubu and his wife, Senator Remi Tinubu, travelled to London after his death to support the family.
7. National Mourning and Unity
- His death drew an outpouring of sympathy from across the country — even from political opponents.
- In Tinubu’s words:
“Even those who don’t agree with me politically have shown strong support… This says so much about the innate goodness in all of us.”
Reflections on Life and Legacy
In his tribute, Tinubu reminded Nigerians of the fragility of life and the importance of living each day meaningfully:
“Mortality comes upon us all. We have no choice in that, but we do have a choice whether we shall be good or bad, just or unjust… Let us all take a lesson from this and think a bit more about our fellow man, our neighbour, our fellow Nigerian.”
Though his life was short, Jide Tinubu left a mark in the legal and maritime industry and in the hearts of those who knew him. His quiet yet impactful life is a reminder that influence doesn’t always come from fame — sometimes, it comes from integrity, service, and love for family.
