MRS. BISI OLOWONIYI BURIES FATHER IN OSI-EKITI; GOV. OYEBANJI PROMISES APPOINTMENT IN HIS HONOUR

MRS. BISI OLOWONIYI BURIES FATHER, LATE CHIEF DANIEL ADEDAYO OGBOJA, IN OSI-EKITI; GOVERNOR OYEBANJI PROMISES POLITICAL APPOINTMENT IN HIS HONOUR “Death is just another part of the beautiful journey.” These solemn words resonated as Mrs. Bisi Olowoniyi and siblings laid their father, Late Chief Daniel Adedayo Ogboja, to rest in Osi-Ekiti, Ekiti State, on 14th February 2026. Osi-Ekiti stood still as the Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyebanji, the Prelate of the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Oliver Ali Aba, and other dignitaries gathered to honour the revered educationist and community leader. Late Chief Dayo Ogboja’s final journey began on 13th February 2026, when his body was conveyed in a motorcade from Bell Funeral Home, Ado-Ekiti, to his residence in Osi-Ekiti. A lying-in-state and wake service were held in his honour. At the wake, tributes poured in for the former school principal, described by many as a “guiding light” whose influence shaped the lives of countless students over several decades. Children, family members, friends, clerics, and alumni of the schools where he served paid glowing tributes to the late patriarch. They attested to his positive impact, describing him as a dependable mentor, a quintessential father, disciplined, sincere, and accountable in his stewardship. The funeral service took place on Saturday, 14th February, at the Methodist Church of Nigeria, Ifaki Diocese, Osi-Ekiti. The service was presided over by the Prelate, His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, JP, supported by retired Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu; the Methodist Archbishop of Ekiti State, The Rt. Rev. Jeremiah Abidemi; and Archbishops from Ogun and Osun States. In his sermon on the “brevity of life,” Dr. Ali Aba emphasized the transient nature of human existence, describing life as a journey marked by coming and going. He portrayed the late Chief Ogboja as a loving father, a man of integrity, and a devoted Christian who served the Methodist Church faithfully for many years. He also highlighted the deceased’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of his family and community. Present at the service was the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, Abiodun Oyebanji, who paid tribute to the deceased as his mentor — a courageous, wise, and God-fearing man whose life left a lasting impact on his family and society. The Governor promised that political appointments would be given to members of the Osi community in honour of the late patriarch, in recognition of his enduring legacy. The ceremony attracted eminent personalities from across the country, including former Ekiti State Governor, Segun Oni; former Minister of Education and former Nigerian Ambassador to Germany, Chief Tunde Adeniran; Her Excellency Mrs. Kemi Mimiko; The Elekole of IKole Ekiti, Oba Adewunmi Fasiku ( represented ); Olori Olosi of Osi-Ekiti; Honourables including Hon. Bimbo Daramola, a member of the House of Representatives. Also in attendance were Mr. Sunday Adegoke, Auditor-General of Ondo State; Mr. Segun Ilori, former Chief of Staff, Ekiti State; and other respected religious and community leaders. Following the church service, the remains were taken to his residence for a private interment, where he was laid to rest in a befitting mausoleum. A reception followed immediately, featuring renowned gospel musician Yinka Ayefele and his band, alongside two other notable musicians, who thrilled guests with soul-lifting performances. Guests were treated to sumptuous meals and refreshments in celebration of a life well spent. Speaking with Platinum Television, Mrs. Adebisi Ogboja-Olowoniyi described her late father as a role model and a man of integrity whose life inspired many. She expressed heartfelt appreciation to all who came to support and celebrate with the family, noting that her father lived a fulfilled and impactful life. Chief Ogboja’s legacy is deeply etched in the fabric of his community. Beyond his ecclesiastical devotion, his tenure at CAC Grammar School, Efon-Alaaye, remains a lasting monument to his commitment to education and discipline. Governor Oyebanji and a generation of leaders remember him for his unwavering discipline and fatherly counsel. Though his 95-year earthly journey has ended, the “Ogboja Standard” continues to live on through the many lives he touched and the institution he helped build. Survived by children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, in-laws and his beautiful wife, Chief. Mrs Deyosola Iyabo Ogboja Omolola Akinbo reporting for Platinum TV