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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Culture & Society

Family, friends honour late philanthropist Omikunle

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Friends, family, and dignitaries gathered in Igbajo, Osun State, to honor the late philanthropist Chief Babatunde Omikunle.
  • The funeral service celebrated Omikunle's life of service and philanthropy, remembering him as a peacemaker.
  • Clergy urged attendees to prepare for death and maintain their relationship with God, encouraging Omikunle's children to emulate his generosity.

The community of Igbajo in Osun State gathered on Saturday to bid farewell to Chief Babatunde Omikunle, the Loogun Losamu of Igbajoland. Friends, family members, and dignitaries attended the funeral service held at First Baptist Church, Igbajo, to honor the late community leader and philanthropist.

Nobody wants to die, but death is a guarantee. There is nothing we can do to stop it. There is an expiration date for every individual.

— Rev. Israel AkanjiDelivering a sermon on the inevitability of death at Chief Omikunle's funeral.

Chief Omikunle, who passed away on March 6, 2026, at the age of 71, was remembered for his life of service and philanthropy. The President of the Nigerian Baptist Convention, Rev. Israel Akanji, represented by Dr. Olusoji Onifade, delivered a sermon emphasizing the inevitability of death and the importance of living a prepared life. Akanji described Omikunle as a great philanthropist and peacemaker who utilized his life's privileges effectively, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

During the service, the clergyman advised the congregation to prepare for death and prioritize their relationship with God. He specifically addressed Omikunle's children, urging them to follow their father's example of generosity and remain steadfast in their faith.

Late Chief Omikunle was a great man. He used the privilege he had very well, and what he did continues to live after his demise. He was a peacemaker, always willing to give a helping hand.

— Rev. Israel AkanjiDescribing Chief Omikunle's character and impact.

Members of the Modern Igbajo Development League also paid tribute to their late President, recalling him as a courageous and firm leader. They expressed their sorrow at his sudden departure but found solace in the fact that he lived a fulfilling life. The group acknowledged his friendliness and firmness, stating they would not forget him.

I want to advise everyone gathered here today, don’t allow death to catch you unprepared. You have to prepare for death because everyone will die.

— Rev. Israel AkanjiAdvising the congregation on life and preparedness.

Chief Omikunle is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. His funeral service served as a testament to his impact on the community and the lives he touched through his generosity and peacemaking efforts.

Your father tried as a child of God. Please, don’t go far from God wherever you find yourself.

— Rev. Israel AkanjiAddressing Chief Omikunle's children.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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