Vincent OBANIYI

The remains of Chief David Olopade Ojekola, the Baba Ijo of Saint Ferdinand Catholic Church, Ogbomoso, were laid to rest on Friday, July 25, 2025; following a solemn funeral Mass that brought together clergy, family, dignitaries, and parishioners from across the region.

 

The Mass was presided over by Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo. Among the many clergy present were Very Rev. Fr. Boniface Wuraola, Vicar General of Oyo Diocese; and Very Rev. Fr. Thaddeus Ajayi, Vicar General of Osogbo Diocese; along with priests and religious from Oyo, Osogbo, and other Dioceses — all gathered to honour a man whose life left a lasting mark on the Church.

The homily was delivered by Rev. Fr. Festus Komolafe, who paid glowing tribute to the late Chief, describing him as “a devoted elder, silent pillar, and faithful servant of the Church.” He highlighted Chief Ojekola’s deep devotion to the Eucharist, his quiet wisdom, and unwavering service to the parish.

 

“Baba Olapade lived the Gospel through action, not words,” Fr. Komolafe said. “Even in his final days, he remained a source of counsel and strength to the parish. His life was a testimony to Christian hope and humble service.”

 

During the ceremony, Pastor Gbenga Olapade, a family representative, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Bishop, the two Vicar Generals, and the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Samson Ojo, for their presence and spiritual support. He especially thanked the entire parish of St. Ferdinand for standing by Chief Ojekola until his final moments. Pastor Olapade also extended gratitude to the parish choir, the Church Warden, the Chairman of Ogo Oluwa Local Government, and the Oba of Ijeru, the Onpetu of Ijeru, for attending the final burial rites.

 

Following this, Bishop Emmanuel Badejo offered his remarks, thanking God for the life of Baba Olapade, as he was well known as, and describing him as “a man who walked the talk.” He commended the late Chief for fulfilling his responsibilities faithfully — as a father, Church leader, and community member — and urged all present to emulate his life of service and integrity.

 

He congratulated Chief Ojekola’s children and encouraged them to remain rooted in the values their father embodied. “You are inheriting more than a name — you are inheriting a legacy of faith, dignity, and honour,” the Bishop said.

 

After the Mass, Chief David Olopade Ojekola’s remains were interred within the premises of Saint Ferdinand Catholic Church — the very sanctuary where he had worshipped and served faithfully for decades.

 

He is remembered as a man of deep faith, quiet strength, and enduring wisdom. His legacy continues to live on in the hearts of his family, his parish, and the wider Catholic community.