Stephen ALAPODE AND Benedict OLOJEDE

All our days pass away in your anger. Our life is over like a sigh. Our span is seventy years or eighty for those who are strong [Psalm 90: 9- 10].  The burial ceremony of our Baba Hon. Michael Akanji Ogunbenro was held at St. Rita Catholic Church Olowu, Igangan on 13th of September, 2025.

The occasion was graced with the presence of the Dean, Bodija Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Akinbinu, the homilist; also present were: Rev. Frs. Sylvester Odugbemi the Chief Celebrant, Victor Ugbor the Host, Callistus Afolabi, John Ademoye, and Paul Anigboro. Moreover, massive turnout of people from different denomination to pay their last respect to the deceased.

The corpse was welcomed by the Host Priest, Rev. Fr. Victor Ugbor, where he reminded all that Baba is now in communion with the Lord with the sprinkling of the holy water which signifies a reminder of our baptism and hope of eternal life, seeking God's mercy and protection for the deceased was done. The white cloth also symbolizes the deceased dignity and the holy Bible symbolizes the deceased faith and devotion to God, a reminder of the promise of eternal life and resurrection through Christ.

During the homily, the Dean of Bodija Deanery, Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Akinbinu reminded all how important it is for one to embrace death. Death is inevitable for one to enter into the eternal glory where Joy and love overflow. In the homily, he highlighted how crucial it is for individuals to be ready always, because no one knows the hour or day it will come. He emphasized on what kind of preparation we have made while we still have the ability to do so, to serve the Lord with all our heart and soul so that we may be with him when he comes. He reminded all to pay closer attention to Baba's word, given his current state: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, will award to me on that day; and not only to me, but also to all who have loved his appearing.” [2 Timothy 4:7-8]

More so, Fr Joseph stated that as we gather to celebrate the life of a remarkable individual, a man of unwavering integrity and faith, who lived as an honest man, guided by the principles of truth and righteousness, his commitment to serving the Lord was evident in the way he lived his life, and he endeavored to show his children the way of the Lord, instilling in them the values of faith, hope, and love; all should emulate such virtues. “Throughout his life, he stood for justice, advocating for the rights and dignity of all people. He worked tirelessly for the development of his community, striving to make it a better place for future generations. His legacy is a testament to the power of faith and service, and we take inspiration from his example.”  Thus before the final commendation which was led by Fr John Ademoye, the family of the deceased shows their gratitude to God and to all who were present at the funeral.

Requiem aeternam Dona ei, Domine, et lux perpetual lueat ei. Amen