Vincent OBANIYI

Priests and Religious of Oyo Denary have paid a condolence visit to the Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, following the passing of the Bishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun. The delegation expressed deep sympathy to the Bishop and the entire diocesan family over the loss of the revered Prelate. They offered prayers for the peaceful repose of Bishop Adelakun’s soul and thanked God for his many years of faithful service to the Church and humanity.

Speaking during the visit, Rev. Fr. Leo Eke described the late Bishop Emeritus as a special human being, specially created by God for humanity and endowed with many virtues. He noted that Bishop Adelakun was a humble and exemplary priest who related with everyone simply because they were human beings. Reflecting on his personal loss, Fr. Eke said he would miss Bishop Adelakun’s wise counsel, encouragement, and even his silence, which often carried deep meaning. He prayed that the virtues the late bishop sowed would continue to bear fruit and that God would reward him eternally for his good deeds.

Rev. Sr. Felicia Ogungbenle, of the congregation of Daughters of the Holy Spirit, described Bishop Adelakun as more than a father and a Bishop, calling him a gift to humanity and the Diocese of Oyo. She thanked God for his life and legacy and expressed pride in belonging to a congregation he helped to establish in Nigeria.

Similarly, Rev. Sr. Mary Consolata Famoyin, OSF, shared her memories of the late Bishop, recalling his deep faith and encouragement to young people to grow in the Church and pursue their vocations. She remembered his personal joy when she and two others joined the convent and prayed that his good works would live on.

In his response, Bishop Badejo thanked the priests and religious for their solidarity and described Bishop Adelakun as a father, teacher, and shepherd whose humility, discipline, and pastoral zeal remain a great blessing to the Diocese of Oyo and the Church in Nigeria.