Vincent OBANIYI

The Babatunde Adelakun Foundation (BAF) on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, celebrated the 91st posthumous birthday of the late Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun, at the Oyo Special Basic School, Durbar, Oyo. The event was held in remembrance of the late Bishop’s enduring legacy of faith, generosity, and selfless service to humanity.

 

The celebration commenced with an opening prayer led by Mrs. Ojeyinka, a member of the Foundation, followed by the introduction of dignitaries by the Master of Ceremony.

 

Among the distinguished guests present were: Very Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo, Administrator General of the Foundation and Dean of Ogbomosho Deanery; Sir E. S. Oke, Chairman, Board of Trustees (BOT) & Babatunde Adelakun Foundation (BAF); Monsignor Anthony Akin Olawumi; Mr. Emmanuel Obey; Mr. Femi Anthony Adetoro; Mr. Taiwo Dominic; Dr. Theophilus Ajobiewe; Rev. Fr. Popoola; Mr. Michael Olanipekun (Orlando); Ms. Adebola Christiana Bola; Mrs. Edna Iledare; and the HOS School Services, Oyo East, Mr. Adaramola Folagba.

 

Also in attendance were several Reverend Sisters, including Sr. Patricia Bola Fatoye (USOA), BAF Secretary; Mother Augustina Ngozi Okechukwu, Superior General of the United Sisters of Our Lady of Apostles (USOA); Sr. Blessing Magam (USOA); Sr. Elizabeth Agu, Diocesan Youth Coordinator; and Sr. Ngozi. The Head Teacher of Oyo Special Basic School, Mrs. R. O. Kehinde, was introduced alongside members of the teaching staff and the Parent-Teacher Association led by Alhaji Waheed, the Chairman, and the Secretary.

 

Delivering a posthumous tribute, Mrs. Kehinde described the late Bishop as “a compassionate soul whose generosity and service to humanity touched countless lives.” She recalled his deep commitment to education and community development, noting that the school had long benefited from his generosity, which enabled many pupils to pursue their dreams. She added that “though he is no longer with us physically, his legacy continues to live on through the many lives he impacted.”

 

In his opening remarks, Very Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo led a moment of silent prayer for the repose of Bishop Adelakun’s soul and expressed gratitude to God for the gift of his life and ministry. He appreciated the continuous support of Bishop Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo and assured that the Foundation would, by divine grace, continue to host the celebration annually. Fr. Ojo encouraged the students to rejoice, affirming that “Bishop Adelakun now intercedes for us as a saint in heaven.”

 

The Chairman of the Foundation, Sir E. S. Oke, appreciated everyone present and acknowledged the silent contributors to the Babatunde Adelakun Foundation. He recalled his relationship with the late Bishop since 1965, describing him as “a humble, God-fearing man whose life remains a model of simplicity and service.”

 

In his reflection, Monsignor Anthony Akin Olawumi shared fond memories of his long association with the Bishop, even before his priestly ordination. He commended the Foundation for preserving the Bishop’s memory and prayed for God’s continued blessings upon the Diocese, the school, and all beneficiaries of the Bishop’s good works.

 

The event featured songs, dances, and creative performances by the students of Oyo Special Basic School, celebrating the late Bishop’s virtues of love, humility, and kindness.

 

Speaking during the program, Mr. Emmanuel Obey urged the students to emulate the late Bishop’s virtues of truthfulness, hard work, generosity, and fear of God. Similarly, Mr. Adaramola Folagba, HOS School Services, Oyo East, commended the Catholic Diocese of Oyo and the Foundation for their consistent support of children with special needs, praying that God would sustain their noble efforts.

 

The highlight of the celebration was the presentation of educational and welfare materials, including exercise books and vests for all students and staff, continuing a charitable tradition that has been sustained by the Babatunde Adelakun Foundation for over 21 years.

 

The event ended with prayers of thanksgiving and words of appreciation from all participants, who expressed joy and gratitude for the life of a man whose light continues to shine through his legacy of service and love.

 

May the soul of Bishop Emeritus Julius Babatunde Adelakun continue to rest in perfect peace. Amen.