Oyo-born renowned evangelist, Rev’d Dr. Funmilade Akintayo Suulola, the General Overseer of Scripture Group Mission and a distinguished educationist, theologian, administrator and community leader, has died.
Suulola, a native of Oyo from the Agunloye Dynasty of Arowona Compound, died on Saturday, August 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of evangelism, scholarship, leadership and community service.
News of his death has generated an outpouring of tributes from close associates, friends, admirers and people who encountered his ministry and public life.
Although the announcement of his death was not made by his church, several of his close allies and associates have continued to pay glowing tributes to him on social media.
Oyomesi97.5fm wrote “He Came, He Served, He Preached, He Left a Legacy. We bid farewell to the earthly journey of Revd. Dr. Akintayo Sulola, a true evangelist and servant of God.”
Suulola was widely regarded as a passionate preacher who dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel, winning souls and impacting generations through his teaching and ministry.
He attended Abiodun Atiba Memorial Institute and Olivet Baptist High School, Oyo, before studying Mathematics Education at Ondo State University, now Ekiti State University (EKSU).
He subsequently developed expertise in Microbiology and Virology through studies at the Nigerian Institute of Science and Technology and the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). He also obtained postgraduate qualifications in Management from the University of Calabar and Theology from the College of Pastoral Training, Ogun State, as well as a Doctorate in Biblical Studies from Harvestime University, California, United States.
Suulola served as General Overseer of Scripture Group Mission, President of Akintayo Suulola World Outreach, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Akintayo Suulola Foundation, and Chief Executive Officer of Oyomesi Communications Ltd.
His contributions to leadership and community development had also earned him recognition with several awards
The late evangelist was also known for his strong connection with Yoruba culture and traditions. His appreciation of Yoruba heritage was evident in his dressing, public appearances and preaching, through which he often projected aspects of Yoruba identity and values.
Those close to him said his personality reflected a blend of Christian faith, intellectual engagement and respect for Yoruba cultural heritage.
His death has therefore been described by associates as a loss not only to the Christian community but also to the wider Oyo community, where he was regarded as a prominent son.
The statement announcing his death described him as an icon and world-renowned evangelist who spent his life preaching the Gospel across nations, winning souls and impacting generations with the Word and power of God.
“His labour in the Lord will not be forgotten. He fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith,” the statement said, quoting 2 Timothy 4:7.
It also quoted Revelation 14:13, which says: “Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord… that they may rest from their labours, and their works follow them.”
As tributes continue to pour in from friends, associates, members of the Christian community and admirers across Oyo and beyond, Dr. Suulola is being remembered for his evangelistic zeal, scholarship, leadership, community service and strong attachment to Yoruba culture.
He is survived by his family.
