Engr. (Chief) Idowu Adewale Adejumo, the late Bobajiro of Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State.

Oba Olugbenle, Community Mourn Chief Idowu Adejumo At RCCG Ogun 7 Commendation Service (+photos)

BY ABU-SATAR HAMED

ILARO-YEWA, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA – The Olu of Ilaro and Paramount Ruler of Yewaland, Oba Dr. Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, MFR, has described Engr. (Chief) Idowu Adewale Adejumo, the late Bobajiro of Ilaro-Yewa, Ogun State, as one of the foundational pillars of the Ilaro-Yewa community.

Speaking on behalf of the monarch during the Commendation Service, Elhadj (Otunba) Abu-Satar Idowu Hamed, the Otun Baaroyin of Ilaro-Yewa, expressed Oba Olugbenle’s sorrow over the sudden death of Chief Adejumo, while delivering a heartfelt condolence to the family.

The Commendation Service attended by dignitaries from far and near – including members of Recreation Club Ilaro, friends, and family – was organized by the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Ogun Province 7. It was held at the late Chief Adejumo’s residence in GRA, Ilaro-Yewa.

Otunba Abu-Satar Hamed stated, “Kabiyesi, all the Chiefs and Ilaro-Yewa community were shocked and deeply saddened by the sudden death of Chief Idowu Adejumo, whom we loved and held in high esteem.”

He noted that Chief Adejumo had made immense contributions to the socio-economic development of Ilaro and Yewaland.

Oba Olugbenle prayed that God would grant Chief Adejumo eternal rest and give his family, fellow chiefs and relatives the strength to bear the irreplaceable loss.

In his tribute, Mr. Waris Adebiyi, representing the Adejumo family of Oju-Oja, Ilaro, expressed their shock upon receiving the news of the death of another pillar of the Adejumo-Adebiyi Dynasty.

He described the deceased as a formidable personality within the family who would be greatly missed for his generosity and care.

Mr. Adebiyi prayed that God would bless the soul of Chief Adejumo and others who had passed before him in their lineage.

Comrade Biodun Olakanmi described Chief Adejumo as a role model, mentor and philanthropist who contributed significantly to the development of Ilaro-Yewa.

He noted that the death of the Ajiroba of Ilaro-Yewa would leave a major vacuum, not only in the Adejumo family but the many clubs and associations he belonged to.

Mr. Adekoya, a brother-in-law to the late Chief Adejumo, expressed deep grief over the death of the man he called a benefactor.

He revealed that he would never forget the good deeds Chief Adejumo had done for him, describing the late chief as a God-sent helper to him and his family.

Adekoya offered heartfelt prayers for the peaceful repose of Chief Adejumo’s soul and for God’s continued protection over the family and relatives left behind.

In her own tribute, Mrs. Akinbode described Chief Adejumo as a devout Christian who generously supported the growth of the Christian faith.

She recalled knowing the Chief through her late husband, a fellow member of Recreation Club, Ilaro.

“When my late husband and I approached Baba for help in purchasing musical instruments for our church, he didn’t hesitate to assist. He didn’t stop there, but continued to support the work of God till he had the breath”, she stated.

Prince (Alhaji) Lamidi Elegbede, Secretary of the Oronna Ilaro Festival Planning Committee, described Chief Adejumo as a “socialite per excellence” and a community leader who held his people in high regard.

Known affectionately as “Emperor”, Elegbede said the late Chief was one of the major sponsors of the cultural segment of the annual Oronna Ilaro Festival.

Elegbede noted that the festival committee and the people of Ilaro-Yewa and Ogun State would deeply miss Chief Adejumo.

He prayed for the eternal rest of the deceased and divine protection over his family.

Engr. Adejumo (not related) lamented the death of Chief Adejumo, calling him a complete gentleman and a quiet philanthropist.

He remarked that since meeting the Chief years ago, he had never once regretted the encounter, stating that the loss would be deeply felt in his life.

Engr. Adejumo prayed for God to forgive any sins the deceased might have committed and to give his family and relations the fortitude to bear the irreplaceable loss.

Mrs. Bose Ogunyemi, an elderly member of RCCG Ogun Province 7, Ilaro-Yewa, described Chief Adejumo’s death as both painful and saddening.

She called him a kind-hearted and devout Christian who never turned away anyone in need of help.

Mrs. Ogunyemi prayed for eternal rest for the late Chief and for divine protection over his immediate and extended families, as well as his friends.

Mr. Falilu Musa, expressing his sorrow, described Chief Adejumo – who had been a friend to his father – as a loving and responsible father figure.

He said he would never forget Chief Idowu Adejumo’s profound role in shaping his life. In his prayer, he asked for the peaceful repose of the late Chief’s soul and for God’s continued guidance and protection over his family.

Mr. Kayode Salako, President of Recreation Club Ilaro (RCI) – one of the most sought-after clubs in Ogun State – led members of the club to the Commendation Service and expressed deep sorrow over the death of Chief Idowu Adejumo.

He lamented that the loss came at a critical moment – when the club is constructing an ultra-modern sports facility, a landmark project made possible through the support of Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), representing Ogun West at the National Assembly

Salako stated that as Chairman of the Elder Council of Recreation Club, Chief Adejumo had provided both moral and financial support to the club’s development.

The RCI President, Mr. Kayode Salako, who prayed for God’s protection over the family of the late Chief Adejumo and for strength to bear the great loss, noted that if not for the short notice of the service, many more club members would have been present to honour their revered leader.

Pastor (Elder) Olaogun, Chairman of the Elder Council of RCCG Ogun Province 7, also paid tribute. He described Chief Adejumo as a pillar of the church and a benefactor to both the institution and its congregation.

“The Coordinator, Exclusive Members, and the entire elders of Ogun Province 7, Ilaro, wish to commiserate with the family on the passing into glory of your dear husband, late Elder (Engr.) Adewale Idowu Adejumo, Grand Patron of the Elders of RCCG Ogun Province 7”, Pastor Olaogun stated.

 

He acknowledged the pain of the loss, reminding mourners that death is inevitable and encouraging them to rejoice in the fact that Baba Adejumo now rests with the Lord.

“Baba was full of affection, compassion, and commitment to God. His life bore testimony to his godly character. We thank God for the life he lived.

“It is our prayer that the Almighty God will comfort the family and give them the strength to bear this irreparable loss. Baba Adewale Adejumo fought a good fight and lived a God-fearing life.”

“To the departed soul, we say, ‘Good night Baba, may your sleep be peaceful’, Pastor Olaogun concluded.”

In his sermon titled “Eternal Passport”, Pastor (Dr.) Jiboku of RCCG Ogun Province 7 described Chief Adejumo as a devout Christian who used his wealth to support the spread of Christianity.

He called the deceased a man of integrity, service, and love, and urged attendees to reflect on their spiritual lives.

Pastor Jiboku emphasized that to enter the Kingdom of God, one must be born again. Citing John 3:3–8, he explained the concept of spiritual rebirth as the true passport to eternity.

The Commendation Service concluded with fervent prayers for Chief Adejumo’s family, friends, and relatives – wishing them comfort, strength, and peace in this time of grief.

Chief Idowu Adejumo’s Obsequies starts with Service of Songs on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm, at RCCG Praise Embassy, Lennon House, Lennon Road (Opposite RSR), Basingstoke, Hampshire, R622 4AP, United Kingdom.

The Funeral Service takes place on Thursday, July 31, 2025, beginning from 2:30 pm, at the Chapel, Manor Farm, Stockbridge Road, North Waltham, Basingstoke, RC25 2RA, United Kingdom.

Reception follows immediately after the service at the Hampshire Court Hotel & Spa Center, Dr. Chincham, Basingstoke, RG24 8FY, United Kingdom.

About Idowu Hamed

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