Has Bode Oyedepo Become Yesterday’s Man?

He used to be very famous in the Lagos social circle. Indeed, when Bode Oyedepo, also known as Bode De-Way, came to Nigeria from his US base, many swarmed around him like bees do to honey, seeking his presence at their events. He bestrode the Lagos social scene like a colossus alongside his wife, Bolaji.

The Kwara State-born socialite was the toast of music stars, especially the Fuji music stars. In particular, K1 ‘D’ Ultimate on several occasions sang his praise to the high heavens. This, according to sources, was a result of his generosity and deep pockets that never run dry.

As a successful businessman, he reportedly built and bought many houses in many parts of Lagos State.  His garage was filled with several state-of-the-art cars, so much so that it could pass for a car lot.

However, Bode suffered a reversal of fortune when he dabbled in the murky water of politics. Society Watch gathered that he was lured into the Kwara State politics, owing to his alleged closeness with the late Dr. Olusola Saraki and later became a close political ally of former Senate President Bukola Saraki.

He had reportedly made his intention known to contest for a seat in the National Assembly to represent Kwara South Senatorial District, and in the process, he committed a lot of money into the project. It turned out to be a waste.

Though he was not a popular candidate and many of his friends warned him against the idea, he refused to heed their advice. Perhaps, he was blinded by his bloated ego as well as lies from his long list of hangers-on.

In the end, he lost in all ways, financially and politically. His residence, which could be described as a Mecca of sorts, was deserted.  It was gathered that his Ikeja GRA residence, which was a haven of wealth and luxury — the bedrooms through the living room interior is made up of Italian designer Versace, and Gucci respectively —  was also sold amidst the financial crisis.

De-Way, thereafter, decided to go completely off the radar, and he distanced himself from social circles where he was once a golden fish and a force to reckon with. For a long time, nothing was heard about the former colourful socialite.