Akure paused in reverence as Tolulola Bayode and her siblings bid their father, Chief Joseph Agboola Bayode, a heartfelt farewell, surrounded by glowing tributes.
The event brought together a large gathering of dignitaries, family, friends, and admirers from all corners of Nigeria to honor a man whose life embodied integrity, service, and love.
The solemn occasion drew a host of prominent figures, including Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Minister of Youths Ayodele Olawande, former Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs Chief Tayo Alasoadura, and Presidential Aide on Food Security Yejide Ogundipe, among others.
The event also attracted notable personalities such as Hon. Ifedayo Abegunde, Executive Director of Corporate Services at the NDDC, and a variety of royals and political figures from the state.
Traditional rulers, including the Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Victor Adesinmbo Kiladejo, and the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade, were in attendance, paying tribute to a man they praised for being “a pillar of his community and a bridge between tradition and progress.”
The service, held at St. John's Anglican Church, Oba-Ile in Akure North Local Government Area, featured emotional tributes and stirring hymns.
The late Chief Bayode’s children, Tolulola, Folayemi Bankole, and Mogbonjubola Bayode, led the family in giving their father a dignified farewell filled with gratitude.
In his sermon, Bishop Stephen of the Anglican Diocese of Owo encouraged attendees to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and live wisely.
He remembered Chief Bayode as “a devout Christian, a man of integrity, and a humble philanthropist whose acts of kindness positively impacted families, communities, and generations.”
Mrs. Bola Fagbele, speaking on behalf of the family, described Chief Bayode as “a rare gem, a disciplinarian with a gentle spirit, and a man whose generosity and wisdom knew no bounds.”
Tolulola Bayode, deeply moved, delivered a heartfelt tribute to her father, recalling, “He was my first teacher, my constant supporter, and a wellspring of love and advice. Daddy’s life embodied the power of kindness, quiet strength, and steadfast faith. His legacy is carried forward through the values he taught and the many lives he touched.”
Following the burial, a reception was held at Ejioba High School, Oba-Ile, where guests were entertained by the performances of Apala legend Musiliu Haruna Ishola and highlife icon Chief Ebenezer Obey, whose songs celebrated Chief Bayode’s impactful life.
In a final act of generosity in honor of their father’s spirit, the Bayode children distributed souvenirs such as gas cylinders, bags of rice, and electric fans to guests.
Although Chief Joseph Agboola Bayode, who passed away at 84, has left this world, his legacy as a man of peace, principle, and purpose continues to resonate. His influence extends far beyond his children, touching countless lives with his wisdom, generosity, and enduring love.
