Christians, traditional leaders and members of the Akinyele family on Sunday gathered in Ibadan to commemorate the anniversary of the birth of Christianity in Ibadanland and honour the enduring legacy of former Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba (Sir) Isaac Babalola Akinyele.
The event, held at the Professor Oladapo Abraham Afolabi Chapel of Grace, Iyana-Offa, Ibadan, featured thanksgiving, prayers and a special posthumous award presentation in recognition of Oba Akinyele’s contributions to the growth of Christianity and community development in the ancient city.
Speaking at the occasion, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr.) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Aruna I), expressed gratitude to God for granting him the opportunity to witness the celebration and immortalisation of one of Ibadan’s most revered traditional rulers.
Represented by Mogaji Allen Tunji Ajala Odugade, the monarch described Oba Akinyele as a notable figure whose commitment to the Christian faith and service to humanity left an enduring impact on Ibadanland.
Drawing lessons from the life of the late monarch, Oba Ladoja called on religious leaders and faith communities to continue promoting unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence in society.
“I urge all religious leaders and faith communities, regardless of their religious inclinations, to champion the core values of tolerance, mutual accommodation and peaceful coexistence. Let unity, love, brotherhood and religious tolerance be our guiding watchwords across Ibadan, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole,” the monarch said.
In his sermon, the Vicar-in-Charge and Church Administrator, Venerable Isaac Olaleye, highlighted the virtues that distinguished Oba Akinyele during his lifetime, noting that personal conviction, total submission to God, endurance and the efficacy of prayer were instrumental to his success in advancing the Gospel in Ibadanland.
Referencing Revelation 3:11 and Genesis 17:5, the cleric urged Nigerians to draw closer to God, remain steadfast in faith and embrace love and righteousness, particularly during challenging times.
As part of activities marking the anniversary, a special posthumous award was presented to the family of the late monarch. The award was presented on behalf of the Olubadan by Mogaji Allen Tunji Ajala Odugade in recognition of Oba Akinyele’s contributions to Christianity and the development of Ibadanland.
The ceremony was attended by Mogaji Dele Fasola of Bolude Compound, Baale (Venerable) Olatinwo Adeagbo Fatoki Onibudo II, the Onikusela of Kusela, members of the Akinyele family, archdeacons, priests and other distinguished guests.
The celebration served as a reminder of the rich Christian heritage of Ibadanland and the enduring legacy of Oba Isaac Babalola Akinyele, whose influence continues to inspire both religious and community leaders generations after his reign.
