The Catholic faithful of Ijio Deanery gathered at St. Theresa Catholic Church, Ijio, in Iwajowa LGA of Oyo State for a solemn Requiem Mass in honor of late Monsignor Emmanuel Yakubu. The Mass, attended by clergy, religious, and lay faithful was a time of prayer, reflection, and thanksgiving for the life of the beloved priest, who dedicated all his life to the service of God and humanity.

Delivering the homily, Rev. Fr. Joseph Ogundipe shared a moving biography of the late Monsignor Emmanuel Yakubu, highlighting his unwavering faith and selfless service. He described the Late Monsignor as a man who was deeply committed to the Church, despite being born into a Muslim family as the son of a Chief Imam. Monsignor Yakubu’s journey of faith was marked by his courage and determination, as he chose to follow Christ even in the face of opposition.

 

“He had nothing and lived his life entirely for others,” Fr. Ogundipe said. “He loved the Church, served the Church, and remained proud of his roots. He was never afraid of death but saw it as an inevitable part of life.” The priest further noted that Monsignor Yakubu was known for tirelessly spreading the Gospel, echoing the message of  the Mass' first reading, which emphasized evangelization and prayer.

Addressing the congregation, HRM, Oba Mudashiru Oyewobi, Amunijio of Ijio land emphasized the impact of Monsignor Yakubu to the growth of Ijio Land as he was never ashamed of associating himself with every Ijio son and daughter both at home and in diaspora.

Discussing with some personalities after the Mass, they have these to say about Monsignor Yakubu.

Mrs. Anthonia Oshin, President of the Catholic Women Organization (CWO) in Ijio Deanery, described Monsignor Yakubu as a loving father to all. She recalled how he was a constant presence in the lives of parishioners, ensuring he visited every home whenever he returned to the community.

 

“He loved the CWO dearly and always encouraged us to remain steadfast in our service to God,” Mrs. Oshin shared. “He taught us the importance of visitation and prayer, and he was always there to celebrate with us in moments of joy and success.”

Her words reflected the deep impact Monsignor Yakubu had on the faithful, as he consistently embodied the virtues of compassion, humility, and unwavering faith.

Mr. Joseph Taiwo Fagbemi, Vice Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council, also paid tribute to the late Monsignor, describing him as a jovial and warm-hearted person. He revealed that Monsignor Yakubu had family affinity with Benin Republic and maintained close communication with relatives there.

“I spent time with him just two weeks before his passing,” Mr. Fagbemi shared. “His friendliness and kindness touched so many lives. We are deeply grateful to our Bishop, Most Rev. Emmanuel Adetoyese Badejo, for taking care of him in his final days.”

He concluded by offering prayers for the Catholic Diocese of Oyo and the entire Ijio Community, asking God to grant them strength and comfort for their loss.

Present at the Requiem Mass were the Dean of Ijio Deanery, Very Rev Fr. Jude Martins Awua, all the priests of the Deanery, the Amunijio of Ijio land and some Chiefs, The Divisional Police officer of Ijio, Catholic faithful and the Community of Ijio land.

The atmosphere was filled with mixed feelings of sorrow and gratitude. While the Ijio Catholic Community mourns the passing of a great Shepherd, they also rejoice in the legacy of faith and service that Monsignor Emmanuel Yakubu left behind.

The Diocese of Oyo and the entire Catholic faithful will continue to cherish his memory, drawing inspiration from his unwavering dedication to the Church and his profound love for the people he served.

May his soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.