Chief Christopher Adebayo Alao–Akala: A Life Well Lived
The Former Governor of Oyo State and a political gladiator who departed this sinful earth on the 12th February, 2022, was finally laid to rest yesterday in his beloved town, Ogbomosho in Opadoyin Akala Lodge, Randa area.
The funeral service took place at Beulah Baptist Convention Ground, Baptist High School, Ogbomosho, where the late statesman experienced glorious and ultimate respect by numbers of statesmen. Due to the number of dignitaries who honored the deceased with their presence at the funeral and the multitude of aggrieved Oyo indigenes who drove down to express their love and respect to the family of the deceased family. The esteemed President of Nigeria Baptist Convention, Reverend Dr. Israel A. Akanji preached to guests passionately about a well-lived life by the departed Icon. He made known that the great man’s life is worthy of emulation.
The late “Tiger”, as fondly called, had wished to die in his hometown and did not wish to be a burden on his family. What else could have proven that the “Otun of The Source” was indeed godsent who died the way he had wished to. The chronicle of Alao–Akala’s life would forever be inscribed on the sands of time and the whole of Nigeria would forever remember the man of people whose passion was to genuinely make people happy.
The late father of Olamijuwonlo lived an incredible life that lifted, upheld, and immensely added to the growth of humanity, Which drew the attention of other political figures, businessmen and humanitarians, the likes of the Vice President of Nigeria Prof Yemi Osinbajo, the executive governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde, Chief Rasaq Akanni Okoya, His wife Shade Okoya, Obi Iyiegbu (Ibi Cubana), Aare Soludero, Hon Shina Peller, Former Governor of Osun State, Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, the incumbent Governor of Osun State, Gboyega Oyetola, the Executive Governor of Ondo State, the Executive Governor of Ekiti State, John Kayode Fayemi, the Deputy Governor of Oyo state, Rauf Olaniyan, Senator AbdulFatai Buhari, Hon Wumi Oladeji Abimbola among others. These top dignitaries testified to the legacy of humanity, courage and hope that the late political gladiator had boldly exemplified right from his early days, but also, efficiently graced the funeral which took place at Ogbomosho Recreation Center yesterday.
As Yoruba elders would say from their bank of wisdom, “When a fire dies it covers its nakedness with ashes…” It is no doubt that though Chief Alao–Akala might have changed location, certainly, his death will bring fortune to his family, Ogbomosho and the entire Oyo State. This has happened and it will repeat itself; history captured the death of Chief Ladoke Akintola, an unmatched orator and political colossus, how the Yoruba nation grieved for the dilemma that the future holds. Many did not understand that a great man never dies forever, instead, they find a way to reincarnate and bring a glorious future.
Therefore, the funeral was fitting and was largely attended, which testified to the extraordinary legacy that “Àgàjà” left behind as way pointer to upcoming humanitarians and politicians.
Among the top artists of the day was King Sunny Ade who serenaded the day with top-notch performances as he is popularly known for.
Chief Christopher Adebayo Alao–Akala lives on in the minds of people and will forever be remembered in the modern politics of Oyo state.
