Vincent OBANIYI

 

Delegates from the Catholic Diocese of Ijebu-Ode on Wednesday paid a condolence visit to the Bishop of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, following the passing of the Bishop Emeritus of Oyo, Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun.

 

The delegation represented the Diocese of Ijebu-Ode and its Bishop, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, who conveyed his heartfelt sympathy and spiritual solidarity to Bishop Badejo, the clergy, religious, and lay faithful of Oyo Diocese.

 

Members of the delegation included Rev. Fr. Jude-Marie Ezeigbo, Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Balogun, Sr. Angela Okonkwo (DMMM), and Catechist Michael Adebanjo.

 

The delegates were warmly received by the Diocesan Secretary, Rev. Fr. Francis Ogunsola; the Pastoral Secretary, Rev. Fr. Benjamin Jolasun; and his assistant, Rev. Fr. Anthony Olanrewaju.

 

Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Fr. Jude-Marie Ezeigbo described the late Bishop Adelakun as a man of deep faith and prayer who lived a fulfilled life. He noted that Christians believe death is not the end but a passage into eternal life, giving thanks to God for Bishop Adelakun’s years of tireless service and devotion to the Church.

 

Fr. Ezeigbo further described the late Bishop as a selfless father who lived for the joy and well-being of others. He recalled how Bishop Adelakun embraced challenges with humility and courage, especially during the restructuring of the former Oyo Diocese—an example of his deep understanding of priestly sacrifice.

 

He noted that Bishop Adelakun’s life reflected total devotion to God and service to humanity, adding that such dedication could only spring from a man of prayer and strong faith. “His life challenges us to go beyond ourselves for the good of the Church,” he said.

 

Fr. Ezeigbo urged the faithful to continue the legacy of faith and holiness left behind by the late Bishop, stressing that the light of faith he passed on must keep burning. He encouraged all Christians to live lives worthy of their vocation and to ensure they leave behind values that will inspire future generations, just like Bishop Adelakun did.

 

It is worthy of note that Bishop Francis Obafemi Adesina is one of the five Bishops ordained priests by the late Bishop Julius Babatunde Adelakun, a testament to the lasting impact of Baba Adelakun’s priestly ministry and mentorship.