The Evolution of the Man, Jide

The traits and character of a man are shaped by both his genes and his environment. Jide Ogunbanjo, born on September 25th, seems to have inherited a larger share of his father’s genes. Among his siblings, one might say he is a “chip off the old block”—or, as Nigerians might put it, “he was vomited by his father,” as Chief would often remark.

Jide and I were classmates in Primary Four, where the late Mrs. Ero Philip was our teacher, Femi Daro served as the class captain, and Pius Edobor was one of our peers. The seating arrangement in class was stratified by academic ability. I was initially placed in what could be considered the “Olodo” (poor performers) section, but I was reassigned by the second term. Femi, unsurprisingly, started in the top section. I don’t recall Jide’s initial placement, but I vividly remember him later standing before his Class 6B teacher, Mr. Alabi, impeccably dressed. He shared that class with Toyin Falola, a brilliant student who later attended Mayflower School, while Jide joined Ojota Secondary School (OSSO), where we remained classmates from Form 1 to Form 5.

Jide might be described as a recluse, though some might debate this characterization. He was certainly not a loud or overbearing individual. Despite coming from a fairly comfortable background, he never exhibited arrogance. I don’t recall him ever clashing with teachers—perhaps because he consistently performed well academically, earning their admiration. His demeanor, marked by decency and orderliness, may have also played a role.

Growing up in a polygamous family as the only child of his mother likely shaped Jide’s outlook on life. However, there was no visible discord among his siblings. His eldest brother taught mathematics at a tutorial center, while Jide worked alongside an older cousin, Gbenga, installing Pay-TV dishes. Their harmonious relationship gave little indication that they had different mothers.

A man’s disposition is shaped by his thoughts and mindset. Understanding Jide’s thinking required close observation. We once worked together as casual laborers at the now-defunct Bata Nigeria footwear company. One day, during a conversation outside his section, Jide, clad in his overalls, revealed that he did not believe in the existence of God. He was an atheist at the time. I wondered why he held this belief. Was it a deeply held conviction, a lack of exposure to the idea of a higher power, or perhaps even youthful mischief?

Interestingly, this was the same Jide who had shown an interest in spiritual matters when we were in Form 1 at OSSO. But in his university years, while studying engineering at Yaba College of Technology, everything changed. God, in His mercy, drew Jide to Himself. His mindset was transformed, and he embraced a newfound faith. He began reading literature that aligned with his spiritual rebirth, and his spirit was renewed.

This new life, however, came with challenges. The “wicked one” often attempts to drag believers back into spiritual Egypt—a place of misery and bondage—by sowing doubt, fear, and condemnation. Yet, God is faithful to sustain those He calls. Even in times of uncertainty, focusing on God’s amazing love, vividly demonstrated on the cross, can strengthen and steady one’s faith.

Life is fraught with challenges, but nothing surprises God. Every trial is designed for our ultimate good. It’s through difficulties that our character is shaped. As the struggles of a butterfly’s larva promote its growth, so too do life’s challenges refine us.

Jide has faced his share of trials. After completing his education at Yaba Tech, he sought employment with Mobil Unlimited. Unfortunately, a significant percentage of job seekers scored highly due to leaked test questions. It’s hard to imagine how disheartened Jide might have felt in such a situation.

Life continued to test him. I recall him standing uncomfortably in a client’s home while working with his cousin to install Multichoice dishes. Despite not being offered a seat, Jide persevered. His determination to secure a better future paid off. Over time, God blessed him, and he, in turn, has become a blessing to others through his generosity.

The most secure anchor for the soul is faith. Material possessions and worldly treasures may bring temporary satisfaction but cannot guarantee lasting fulfillment. True life is found in self-sacrifice and trust in the One who loved us enough to lay down His life, granting humanity a share in His eternal life.

Uwem Sampson