A 35-year-old photographer, Orowole Samuel Kolapoz, popularly known as Kola Onifoto, has died following a motorcycle accident in Lagos.
Kola, who was widely known for his photography work and creative storytelling, reportedly sustained critical injuries in a crash on Saturday, March 1, shortly after announcing plans for his first solo motorcycle trip outside Lagos.
Earlier that day, he had taken to Facebook to share his excitement about riding from Lagos to Akure. Hours later, friends disclosed online that he had been involved in an accident and was rushed to the emergency unit of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) at 7UP, Ojota.
He was subsequently transferred to the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) for further treatment as friends and colleagues appealed for prayers on social media.
Despite medical efforts, he passed away on Sunday, March 2.
Just weeks before the tragic incident, precisely on January 15, Kola had announced that he had fulfilled his dream of becoming a biker. Sharing a photo beside his new motorcycle, he wrote: “I recently became a new biker. One of my life dreams clocked and achieved! I won’t fall and die on this – Amen!”
Colleagues in the creative industry have described him as passionate, hardworking, and full of life. Tributes have continued to pour in on Facebook and X, with many mourning the loss of a talented photographer whose life was cut short at 35.
One associate wrote, “Your lens captured moments beautifully. This is a painful loss to the creative community. Rest well, Kola.”
Another added, “You chased your dreams boldly. We will remember you for your art and your spirit.”
His passing has sparked renewed conversations online about road safety and the risks associated with motorcycle travel.
