The peaceful town of Ikole Ekiti came alive on Friday, 17th October 2025, as dignitaries, family members, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the life and times of the late Chief James Adeyanju Owolabi, a retired school principal who passed on at the age of 89.
The funeral service, held at the Methodist Church, Ikole Ekiti, was presided over by the Bishop of Ayedun Diocese, who, in his sermon, described the late Chief Owolabi as “a man of virtue, discipline, and uncommon dedication to the growth of education and humanity.” He urged the living to emulate the exemplary life of the departed elder statesman.
A colourful reception followed at D Vand Event Centre, where a large crowd of mourners paid their last respects. The event attracted several prominent Nigerians, including an oil and gas magnate, Mr Banji Oladunni; a top INEC official, Mrs Akinola; and the Chief Executive Officer of Blue Diamond Sead, Prince Adeyimika Fredrick Famuyiwa. They all described Chief Owolabi as a rare gem whose legacy would endure for generations.
In her tribute, the eldest child of the deceased, Mrs Opeyemi Jackson, urged guests to embrace peace, unity, and tolerance among the living. She expressed deep gratitude to the people of Ikole Ekiti for standing by the family during their period of mourning.
A son of the deceased, Engr. Olumuyiwa Owolabi, Chairman of Marydos Nigeria Ltd, a construction firm, appealed to government authorities to urgently fix the deplorable condition of roads across Ekiti State. He noted that poor infrastructure continued to hinder economic and social development in the state and urged leaders to “complement the good work of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by ensuring good governance reaches the grassroots.”
The late Chief Owolabi is survived by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. His legacy, many said, lives on in the countless lives he touched as an educationist, community leader, and loving father.
Would you like me to give it a shorter, more front-page–style headline and riders too?