… buried with gigantic party in Ibadan
… As estate & environs name Street in his honour
By Divine Okon Sam
It was indeed a celebration of life and a life well spent as children, wife, grandchildren, inlaws, relatives, community, Christian bodies and various associate gathered recently at richbam event centre to bide final farewell to their departed father and hero, Elder Jeremiah Owojori who inculcated christ-like life during his years on earth.
Prominence personalities from all walks of life took converged at richbam event centre, Ibadan, Oyo State capital to extolled the hospitality and leadership qualities of the late elder Jeremiah Akinlolu owojori
The event at the White horse multi decorated hall of the richbam had in attendance the high and mighty from all the strata of the nation’s economy – political, academia, administrative and business communities, including captains of industry, friends and associates of the owojori’s family who came in large numbers to bid the late octogenarian a final farewell.
The biography of the the deceased revealed he was born in 1938 into the family of Late Pa Josiah Owojori of lowa Akantioke Royal family and late chief Mrs. Comfort Arajanwo of Ogboru Royal family both in IIe-Ife.
Having laid a solid foundation through primary and secondary education, he passionaly engaged himself in an automobile training with curiosity of training others freely in his usual generosity.
Elder Jeremiah’s passion towards skill and development of many young people did not only stop him at training them and giving them lifetime means of survival and livelihood, he also established Oluwaseun automobile workshop to render all kinds of automobile servicess at Moniya, in Ibadan.
His ability and determination to be a godly loving husband and father of no means repute, propelled him beyond automobile guru to acquiring a certificate in marriage counselling and since then Elder Jeremiah become a tool that God used tremendously and in several occasions to restored many broken Christian marriages in the Christiandom.
Baba ilu oyinbo as fondly, was not just a committed church worker, he devoted his passion for God in totality especially after his retirement from the automobile company. His selfless service to humanity and divinity also endeared him into becoming patron and leader of many churches in the western region of Nigeria.
Having functions in all spheres of life, elder Jeremiah Akinlolu when it comes to community development projects and activities was not found wanting, he took responsibilities and contributed immensely and meaningfully to the growth of his immediate community.
According to his biography, he was named the first chairman of his estate, a position he occupied for years because of his sterling leadership qualities that boom the victory estate Quarry Asunle, within a couple of years.
In his exhortation at the funeral service, Pastor Emmanuel Yusuf of Christ Authority miracle Church, Ibadan, admonished the children of the deceased and the well-wishers on how to handle the issue of death. He reminded and charged the congregation not to fear death but to be prepared and steadfast with God as everyone would be called home someday.
The preacher, in his admonition sue his listeners to adopt and imitate the christ-like footprint of the departed Elder Jeremiah who lived an examplary life to signify his faithfulness in God.
At the party, many who interacted with Newsieevents described the late community leader, as a compassionate and an epitome of love and discipline, while others noted that his humility and selfless service to God and humanity were second to none and cannot be overemphasised.
“He was a nation builder who sacrificed so much to the unity of his family and the society at large, though hardly heard of. It will amaze you to know that daddy was one those who made the survival of many cooperative societies in workable conditions.
“With his experience in the automobile, especially as an administrator, he advised series of young people quite often on several issues that arose and we always followed his direction whenever he cautioned.
He contributed so much to restoring peace in various environments.
“He had a good heart and many got to me for one favour or the other through him. Sadly, some of these people never acknowledged his role in getting such favours. I will miss him.”
Tributes from his beloved wife and children also poured in perfect peace sharing testimonies the deceased as their father.
Victoria olateju Agbeke
Your darling wife.
Modupe lowo olorun lori igbe aye baba mi, oko mi, olufe mi, enibi okan mi, Jeremiah Akinlolu, Ishola, Owojori wipe olorun ran won lowo lati gbe igbesi aye takuntakun ninu Kristi ati ise ribiribi ti won se lori owon Omo wa, esu gbogun nigbati won wa ni ibi ise sugbon ko ni agbara lori emi won, titi won fi lo igbesi aye won bi olorun ti se fe. Modupe fun ise ijere okan, oro iyanju ati ise takuntakun ti e se ninu ijo olorun gbogbo ati ninu idile lorisirisi.
Okomi Ishola, Modupe to je ki igbeyawo romilorun, ose fun ife to fe mi, oko rere to n sike iyawo ati awon omo wa, Akinlolu, omo elerunwa, omo akanti oke, ose fun irepo ati isokan to fi bami rin irinajo laye ati Ife Kristi ti ajo gbin sinu aye awon Omo wa.
O romi lara pupo lati padanu enibi okan mi ni iru akoko bayi, sugbon Jesu fe o jumi lo. Ao tun pade lese Jesu, sun re oo olufe mi owon.
Agboola Owojori and family
My father was a good man. He was always fair and honest with everyone he met. He was a hard worker, and he instilled those values in me. I will always remember him for his kind heart and is endless supply of wisdom. Dad, you taught me true meaning of unconditional love. I carry that precious lesson with me always, passing it on as you would want. You live on in my heart and in the hearts of all you touched. Those who knew and loved my dad know he was a man of faith and instilled that in all of his children and those that are close to him. He was a strong pillar of many churches in his community. In addition to his faith, dad was also a very hard worker. He always put his family first and ensured we had everything we needed, even if it meant sacrificing his wants nd needs.
My father was a selfless man always and always put others before him. We will all miss him dearly! May your gentle spirit now dwell beyond this earthly realm! May your teachings on how to live with joy, patience and purpose remain imprinted on our heart. Though my father has departed this world of men, may the wisdom planted within our souls by this man raised me and my siblings guide us all our days.
His simplest lesson – a kind word, an encouraging smile, the gratitude found in little things, shaped our moral compass more than he knew. While we dearly miss the sound of his voice, the life lessons he instilled in us through tender moments and timeless truths now shine brightest in darkness and doubt. My dad lived to see me and my siblings find happiness and security and love. He will have died content for knowing that. May your gentle soul continue to rest in peace.
Kayode Owojori
What does it really means to be a father? Providing for your family-shelter, food, security, etc. Those are basics, I can say we got all those. One extra length which no money in the world can buy is PUSH.
Oh yes, PUSH , Pray Until Something Happens. I have never seen anyone better in that respect than Jeremiah Akinlolu Owojori and our dearest mother. In difficult circumstances we always have the sure hope that there is nothing to big for God. Therefore we were grounded in the believe that God will make a way. And He did. We didn’t come from much but we can gladly say that today God indeed has blessed us beyond even our own imaginations.
For instance, me going to Lagos for academics, I always had a worry that starting higher education I may not finish due to financial issues. I am sure the feeling was the same for my siblings. However, not just me but all my siblings went to various schools, even abroad to study and completed their programs. How did that happen you may ask? They( mother and father) PUSHed!!!
That again says a lot about our father, Jeremiah and indeed the mother. Priority was on education. They went hungry, sold everything they had to make sure no one was left uneducated. To that we all can say thank you. This was not just for us but everyone who had the privilege of living in our family unit. Dad’s nephews, nieces, and relatives (mum’s relatives as well ). In fact, I always wonder if I could ever be half the man he was,perhaps I would declare myself a successful man. Okay, let’s be clear on that. I don’t think anyone could aspire to having 7 wonderful children. In that he would always be ahead. However, having compassion on others, reaching out to everyone far and near was quite exemplary. Many uncles that lived with us and went to study abroad. That was a lofty height. Also, I have had privilege to listen to all the submitted videos tributes. I was proud to have been raised by him. Helping everyone and also neighbours to realise their potentials was simply extraordinary.
Growing up was a bit challenging, of course not different to most people experience at the time. Daddy was a figure of authority and an astute disciplinarian. When mummy goes, “je ki daddy de, you will explain yourself”. When your daddy comes back home you will explain yourself. Dearie me, that means someone is in big trouble. Heading to be early wouldn’t help. Just stay awake and get your punishment and cry yourself to sleep. However, fast forward to many years, with arrival of grand children that figure of disciplinarian slowly turned to a teddy bear. It was amazing to see, you an see his unbridled joy whenever the grand children visit. Of course, he has special songs for all of them. Please, don’t make me sing them. How many grand children now? The are infinitely continuous. They will miss him, and we can’t purport to even want to fill is shoes. So we will take the grandchildren to McDonald’s for treat occasionally.
Timing of his death ushered in regrets and deep sorry. His birthday would have been in August. All plans was to give him one last celebration and build more memories. He definitely was not ready to go yet but God knows best. Due to the nature of his work, my dad has been in and out of hospitals over many years. And each time he came out stronger than before. I often thought he was invincible. We are indeed grateful to God for many things but chief amongst the was that daddy’s prayer was answered. He always prayed that he would not be a burden on his children, meaning he will hate to be sick and require lengthy hospital treatments. Alas, his calling home was sudden, perhaps even unexpected. He got his final wish of being hail and healthy to the end
Between prayers and talking I wonder what he enjoyed more. Who can forget ” Daddy’s fireside special “. Okay, a bit of clarity. We didn’t have a fireside in our house, we were not that posh and Nigeria is far too hot for that. The “fireside” talk happens weekly and father just talk for hours (unending ) about his past (growing up in lle-ife), we glossed over the present but more emphasis was on the future. Most things, as expected flew over my head, especially when there is physics and Additional mathematics tests the following day. However, one thing that stuck we me forever, probably because he would not stop talking about it was parable of a strand of broom. Easy, we can laughed. However, the strongest of us could not break a bunch of broom. Our “scientific” conclusion was that a strand of broom is easily broken but a buch cannot be broken. That was is way of drilling in unity amongst his children. Now, this is an aspiration! God helping us we would strive for this.
Finally daddy, I can confidently say that all your prayers were answered. All your wishes for your children came true and most of we will aspire to keep the flag of unity amongst us flying. We are indeed privileged that you were our Father, we pray that God accepts you Into his bosom. Today we cry! Today we laugh! Today we rejoice! Your job here on earth is done, rest in peace till we meet to part no more. You remain in our lives and in our hearts forever.
Sun re o!
Bankole Owojori
Daddy, baba mi Jeremiah Akinlolu hmmm! It difficult for me to put in words how much you meant to me. Surely words can not explain the depth of my love to my dad. Daddy. I missed you more than anything in the world. My dad will always go out of his Ways to put smiles on people’s faces. Your honesty, integrity, humane nature, and above all fear of God you held on to will lay down your cross.
Your teachings and disciplinary act will linger in my head forever. You were the best father someone could ask for. I am honoured beyond measures that I came out of your loins. They way you thoroughly bred and groomed myself and my siblings has shaped us into what we are today. Little wonder things are falling in places for us.
I am who I am today just because of your discipline. I remember when you asked me to signed an undertaking with you that I am going to finished my studies just because you wanted me to put in my best. I am very happy to make that decision on that faithful day, as I t was the evidence of your fulfillment and joy the day you came to London to grace my master graduation ceremony, it was indeed mission accomplished.
Any ways we have forgotten to show our gratitude enough for all the things you did for us. We’re thanking you now and always. And we hoping you knew all long, how much you meant to us.
Seyitan said there is no one that will be calling him Samuel like you used to call him. He said he believed you were sleeping and that you would wake up again.
Sekemi was asking me, is it grandpa that called me Pemi Pemi? That she would love to see your face again.
Oladapo Owojori
Tribute to my respectable father
Million of words not enough to describe my dad. The Lord’s general, a mentor, a missionary, a teacher and leader, that departed from this sinful world.
My Gist partner and confidant is it care, counsel, discipline, humility, knowledge, moral, prayers or teachings that you impacted on us. If I want to talk about it, it’ll take years to express, hmm, I will forever missed you but your legacies will remain forever. All these made me remember the times we were using lantern to read whenever there’s no light and you always make sure you monitored us to read which really helped when I was in higher institution that I was able to use it write different projects for final year students. Daddy, I say thank you for your impact in our lives. If there is chance again after death, I will still prefer you to be my father because I have never seen a kind hearted father like you. I could remember your slogan after devotion (KI AMA LOLAYO, KI OLORUN AYO WA PELU GBOGBO WA. A IN). A o pade lese jesu. Sunree ooo baba mi owon.
Layomi, Loyanmi and Lonimi when they heard the news of your demised bursted to cry that they will not see grandpa ibadan again, holidays in ibadan and they will forever missed you. When they sang your composed song for my little boy (IYA EO, WA GBE O) he cried that you will not be singing the song for him again. Our grandpa is irreplaceable in our hearts. Sleep on grandpa
Jide Owojori, my wife and my children.
My beloved father! Your life was a blessing and your memory a true treasure. The day you left this cacophony confused world was not just a date on a calendar, it was the day when my very existence changed forever! My solace is the fact that you lived a righteous life. Every moment of your life was like a book on a path towards Heavenly bliss! My dad was a man like no other if love, humility and compassion had a form in human then it was him, he was an Icon worthy of emulation, a true definition of what a family man should be like. He was a hero, a strong support system, a hardworking and strong individual who was always there for his family, friends, church members and the community. He was selfless, he lived for others and always willing to help, he was highly principled and stood firmed for what he believed was in the general interests of everyone. Dad would do anything for anyone, and he DID. A bold and fearless dignified man of God who stood for the defenceless, fatherless, widows, needy and the oppressed. He was a team maker, always there for peacekeeping and upholding family ties and friendship. Dad gave so much importance to christ. He ensure that myself and my siblings all place Christ at the centre of our lives by learning his words, by following his teachings and by walking in his path and in faith. Dad place education at the forefront of what we must achieve so as to enhance our introspection and sense of self. Ah! Dad would ensure that we read our book at midnight so as to come out in flying colours in our exams, preparing us for the future in actual fact. Back then we thought he was too hard on us but we later realised that it was for the betterment of our lives and to be somebody in life. He always wanted to know what was up our sleeves so as to put us through where the need arises.
My Dad would say my life would be much better than this if I had someone that encourages and advise me as I advise my children. Dad, I remember Akara Iyadunni and bread Osuu you used to buy back the on your way back when you travelled. Dad’s love was unconditional and this is something I will cherish from his character and take with me forever. There are no enough to describe just how amazing my dad was to us and all the lives he touched and what a powerful influence he was. Dad, you are a symbol of a very successful father for all of your achievements through us!
Dad’s words of encouragement gave me the vim and vigour to believe in my dreams that nothing is impossible to achieve. Dad would say “Ti o ba ko oju si e ko o ta, ti o ba ehin si e ko ta, ti o ba was ku iwon nikan, ki o tun ero ara e pa” there is no quality which one must possess to win and that is definiteness of purpose, the knowledge of what one want, and a burning desire to posses it” I tried to honour him through how I live my life, keeping his gentle soul evergreen. I will do my best to carry on his footsteps and continue to keep his legacies alive. My dad was known as a problem solver due to his analytical skills and most importantly, applying the wisdom of God. Dad, I am privileged and honoured to be one of your children and I’m so glad you are a grandfather to my children.
I remember the smiles and the excitement when he was told that he would be coming to London to see us. God’s time didn’t spare him for us. Dad, your passing has left us with a heartache no one can heal but I will hold on to what the Bible says in psalm 147 vs 3 that ” He heals the broken – hearted and binds up their wounds” I am humbled by mum’s strength over the past few months and her ability to focus on the amazing life she shared with my Dad. I applause you mami, my super mum, for your strength, courage, for standing by Dad through it all and for being the obirin bi okunrin. IYA ni iya mi. While my dad is physically gone from our lives and we seek answers as to “why now” as we would love to have him around for many years, I know that he is never gone. I know that all of his energy that was known to us in his human form exists now in other form your caring spirit remains etched upon my heart in ways no words could fully convey. Dad, may your path be brightened by the light of God to eternal rest in Jesus mighty Name, Amen.
My hero, my role model and prayer warrior. Akin Omo Akin! Your Excellency, Dad!!! One of God’s decorated field Marshall. We love you but God loves you more. Rest on, mi Baba Owon!!! Lots of love.
Deborah Oluwagbemisola Williams.
Tribute to my Dad.
My Akim bobo as I fondly called you. My Dad, my best friend, my Gist partner, my prayer warrior, my confidant and pillar of strength and courage. Thank you for all you taught me about life, discipline and responsibilities, your words and wisdom would surely be missed.
Daddy, you are not to be mourned but celebrated for a life well spent.
For you to have sang “AGBANI LA GBA TAÑ O” during your last moments shows how well you have achieved and accomplished your purpose on earth. I know it was so sad to leave everyone behind but I believe you already saw celebration of the heavens rejoicing on your ascension to eternal abode and welcoming you home to greater place.
Thank you for the kingdom legacy you impacted on us. Your legacy will surely live on. Thank you for everything.
From your one and only daughter.
Tobi Owojori
My dad was an incredible man, lover of Christ, cheerful giver, resourceful, peace maker and a courageous man. He provided for his family and made sure his children had the guidance we needed both physically and spiritually. He was my biggest fan and my greatest role model. I could call him at any time and he always has a solution to my problems. Life is different without him, but I am grateful I got to call him my dad.
He taught me how to be independent, faithful, generous and a helping hand to spouse because my dad was always assisting my mum and he wouldn’t want her to be used up at any point in time.
I’m happy that he’s been gained in Heaven because he signed out if this sinful world by thanking his creator ” thank you Father! Thank you son! The one that saves me completely, thank you Father” May your soul continue to rest in peace Dad! I love you.
Omowunmi Owojori
“Moyin Oluwa, Moyin Jesu fun ore tese oo ninu aye wa” our national anthem whenever we want to share Goodnews
My daddy, Owojori, I can’t stress it enough how much I missed you. I love you from the bottom of my heart. I can never forget the day I met you as my father inlaw. You immediately adopted me as your daughter and added me to the beautiful family of owojori’s. Our memories I will forever cherish and keep in my heart.
We all love you, Daddy sunre oo baba Omo
Ikemesit owojori
Daughter in-law
Tribute to my loving and caring father in-law, grandpa life, your love s was an indication and part of my overall marital happiness. I did not know you were too fond of me until the children and I spent time with you during one of the summer holidays.
You poured your heart into my dearest husband, you told him how much I care for you and how grateful you were to have me as your daughter-in-law. I missed your jokes and laughter. As a father-in-law and a father figure, your peaceful memories are still our guide.
I lost you, but I did not lose you as a model of my husband’s life. I will get to see you again someday in heaven. Adieu grandpa.
Folashade Oluwaseun Owojori
I know it hard to accept that you are no longer with us, you fought long and hard to be with us. We know you now watch over and protect us, although we can’t hear your voice again or see your smiling face. We know deep down in our hearts that you have not left us, rest on Daddy. If I had to do my life over, I will chose you to be my Dad. I love you and honour you, I am happy to call you my dad and am proud to be your daughter-in-law
There were times when we disagreed but still meant the world to me. You touched so many lives positively. You treated me as your own, you always took me as your real daughter instead of just saying daughters-in-law. I love you and I always will. May your soul rest in peace. Sun ree ooo baba oninu re!!!
Ayokunle Williams
Daddy calls me “Baba Ife” or “Oba Ife” and I respond “” “Oba ki yin oo”
He was a good father/father-in-law to me
Daddy was frequent with call check and we most times make jokes out of our conversation.
He was a man of principle, strong faith and a prayer worrior. I can boldly say I benefited from all of these, and his prayers is a reflect of positivities on me and my family.
Motunrayo Owojori
To my school dad, grandpa as I used to call him! I know for the fact that you died a happy and successful man. Though we are sad to see you go grandpa! Myself, my parents and my siblings are also privileged to have shared our lives with this gem of man! Grandpa taught us so many things that we will pass on to the generations to come. His journey is an aspiration to my family and others whose lives he touched. We will all miss the usual weekend phone calls, checking up on us and the first of the month phone calls and prayers for every single family member.
My earliest memory of grandpa was when I met him and grandma at jide’s apartment during one of his numerous visits to London. I was nervous about meeting grandpa and grandma since my husband and I had only been dating for a short time. But grandpa quickly put me at ease and made me feel at home. Grandpa made sure that his children have what they needed to not only grow up, but to be responsible, hardworking, ethical and loving people. He taught his children to help each other and anyone who needed help. He taught them by his example, to work hard, to think and to never give up. These are character traits that all of his children have. We have all been touched by his selflessness and admired him for always being there when he was needed. There is no better way to let you know how much I admired him, not just as my father- in – law, but as a grandfather to my children and many of their cousins as well. We love you grandpa but God loves you more!
Lots of love
Tributes also poured from relatives, church, communities and associations to give the Elder Jeremiah Akinlolu owojori a befitting farewell.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Mrs. Victoria Olateju Agbeke, 7 children, grandchildren, daughters inlaw and host of many relatives.
The big-eared bat party was multi-mega, guest were treated with varieties of both locally and internationally prepared delicacies. It was fun and very entertaining with a versatile live band, blossom ban and African melody who collaborated with the Master of ceremony, Diamond Alade to vibrate the stage and keep the party lively.
Interestingly the estate where elder Jeremiah Akinlolu owojori functioned effectively as pioneer chairman, magnanimously name a street after in his honour, to reciprocate his Uninterrupted service and selfless contribution to growth and development of the area. The street has been dedicated and officially opened for users.