Alhaji (Chief) Mbashiru Okunola Shote

Alhaji (Chief) Mbashiru Okunola Shote, fondly known as Baba Olowo, was a towering figure in Ijebu-Ode and beyond. Born on November 1, 1933, in Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, he was rooted in the illustrious Agunsebi (Towobola-Shote) family through his father, Pa Owodunni Odusami, and the distinguished Alhaja Umani, daughter of Shehu Mahdi of Idepo.

Early Life and Education

Balogun M.O. Shote began his education at Ansar Deen School in the Oliworo Quarters of Ijebu-Ode. Rather than pursuing further formal education, he chose to dive into business, working alongside his mother, a successful clothing trader. His natural acumen for commerce quickly distinguished him, leading to the establishment of Lovely Stores at Itaa Ale in Ijebu-Ode.

Business Ventures and Achievements

Balogun M.O. Shote was a visionary industrialist, celebrated for his role as Executive Director of Shokas Industries Limited, which he co-founded with Bobagunwa Alhaji Olanrewaju Kassim. The name "Shokas" combined "SHO" from Shote and "KAS" from Kassim. It became one of Nigeria's first embroidery lace industries.

His entrepreneurial ventures included:

• Solak Textiles Industries Limited
• Lovely Stores
• Lovely Motors
• Protein Feeds Industries
• Shote Ola Nigeria Limited

Transforming the Ojude Oba Festival

Balogun M.O. Shote revolutionized the Ojude Oba Festival during his tenure as Otun-Balogun and later Paramount Balogun. He introduced:

• Regal attire with aso oke agbada and custom hats
• Dignified processions with uniformed entourages
• Masterful horse riding displays
• Traditional drummers from across Yorubaland
• Modern band music integration

Leadership and Legacy

Known as Baba Alaanu (The Compassionate), his philanthropy touched countless lives. As Supervisory Councillor for Works in Ijebu-Ode, he oversaw infrastructure projects. He served as Life Vice President of the Ijebu-Ode Chamber of Commerce and was installed as Otun-Balogun in 1985, becoming Paramount Balogun in 1996.