“He was passionate and loyal” — Lawyer pays tribute to Kola Oni Foto

Nigerian lawyer Chimezie Okpoko has penned an emotional tribute following the tragic passing of popular photographer and biker, Kola Oni Foto, who reportedly died after a motorcycle accident during a solo ride.

Writing from a deeply personal perspective, Okpoko recounted how their relationship began with conflict. Years ago, the two had clashed on Facebook, exchanging harsh words and even threats.

But months later, during a visit to a mutual friend’s house, they met face-to-face and chose a different path.

According to Okpoko, Kola apologized during that meeting and explained that he was trying to approach social media differently.

He spoke about his military background and how it had shaped his worldview. That conversation marked the beginning of a cordial and respectful relationship between them.

Their bond grew stronger over time. Okpoko recalled a particular moment when his flight to Lagos for a friend’s wedding was delayed until almost midnight.

Despite the late hour, Kola waited at the airport for him and ensured he got safely to his hotel around 1 a.m., refusing to accept any payment for his time. On subsequent visits to Lagos, Kola would often send a driver to pick him up.

He wrote …

“A few years ago, Kola and I got into it on Facebook. We exchanged words and threats were made. Months after that, I visited Osas in his house and met Kola.

We talked and hashed out our issues. He apologized and told me he was trying to do things differently on social media. He told me about his military background and how that shaped his world view.

We would go on to become cordial. My flight to Lagos for Victor’s wedding was delayed till almost midnight but I wasn’t scared because Kola was at the airport waiting for me. We eventually got to my hotel around 1am or so and Kola left without charging me a fee.

I would visit Lagos a few times after that and he would send a driver to pick me up.

When he got into activism, he would call to seek my opinion. I even made a post a few weeks ago cautioning him to be more careful in trying to help folks.

Kola was a decent man. He worked hard, took care whatever life threw at him like a champ.

Kola was a good son who looked after his family.

He got into it with a few people online because that is who he was. A passionate man.

This is a devastating loss to his family and his friends.

May the good lord accept his soul and comfort his family, friends and loved ones.

Rest easy champ. I will see you when it is time. Thank you for always trying to live.”

See post below …