The late Ezekiel Adediran Afonja, was born around 1907 at Ajabata homestead in Joga-Orile, Egbado (Yewa) North LGA of Ogun Stale. He was the last born of his parents, the late Mr. Ayinla and Mrs. Abayomi Afonja (née Idowu). He predeceased his elder brothers and sisters when he died on 9th December 1940 at about the age of 33 years. He was survived by his widow, Sabainah and three children: Olabiyi, Oladapo and Adebisi of blessed memory.

The young Ezekiel Adediran had his primary education at the Iju United School, Iboro, Egbado (Yewa) North LGA. His education came to an abrupt end while in Standard III when his sister, Hannah, who financed him died suddenly. Among his contemporaries at the primary school were the late Chief Amos Oje (Chief (Mrs) Kemi Odebiyi's father) and the late Chief Abel Olukuewu, both of whom were staunch members of St. Peter's (Ang.) Church, Joga-Orile.

On leaving school, he became an apprentice washerman under the late George Ajiboye, an elder brother of Chief Isaac O. Ajiboye, the current Baba Ijo of St. Peter's, Joga and one of the patrons of the Ezekiel Adediran Afonja Foundation (EZAAF) that we have come to launch today. For a brief period he practiced his profession at Joga-Owode in Ado-Odo Ota LGA until he decided to change to produce-buying specializing in cocoa beans. To this end he apprenticed himself to the late Alimi Salako at Ota and on completion of his tutelage, established a flourishing cocoa-buying business in the market-town of Iju near Ota.

At the same time he did a lot of farming and was equally successful in this endeavour.

Ezekiel Adediran was a very affable young man who was equally loved and adored by the young and old. Young Joga boys who attended the Abeokuta Grammar School always spent a few days with him at Iju both on their way to and on their way back from school. They knew a sincerely hospitable welcome and accommodation awaited them at all times. In addition, they looked forward to picking up a few things about western male fashion especially the English suit and tie - perceived high points of western culture at that time!

Just before breathing his last breath, he was reported to have made the following request to his siblings "send my children to school".

His generosity and love for all is attested to by many; one such person is Mr. Olumide Akinsanya, another patron of this Foundation.