From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
It was an emotional scene in Ilorin recently as Journalists, church members, family and friends gathered to bid farewell to Elder Olarewaju Olayiwola Emmanuel (JP), Kwara State Correspondent of The Sun newspaper and former Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ).
The Christian wake and service of songs held at Mount Olives Hall, Pipeline Road, attracted a large turnout of sympathisers, while the funeral service took place at the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Heavens Gate Provincial Headquarters, F-Division, Tanke, Ilorin.
Delivering a moving sermon at both events, the Zonal Pastor of RCCG, Ilorin, Pastor Abiodun Fagbemi, described the late Journalist’s passing as a sober reminder of the brevity of life and the need to prioritise eternal values over worldly accomplishments.
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“Life is a journey that requires adequate preparation. The greatest investment any man can make is the investment in his soul,” he said. “There is nothing of greater and lasting value than the salvation of your soul.”
The cleric observed that people attend funerals for different reasons but urged all present to reflect on their relationship with God.
Drawing lessons from the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, he explained that while many witnessed the crucifixion, only those who understood the message of salvation embraced the hope of eternal life.
“If you live according to the flesh, it leads to death, but if you live by the Spirit, you have life. You must be led by the Spirit of God,” Pastor Fagbemi declared.
“What is it that you possess today that will last forever? Only the salvation of your soul guarantees eternity.”
He cautioned Christians against taking grace for granted, stressing that sin must not have dominion over believers. According to him, righteousness and faithfulness in service to God remain the pathway to divine blessings.
Addressing Journalists and other professionals in attendance, the pastor challenged them to use their platforms in the service of God and humanity, noting that influence, wealth and status cannot substitute for integrity and godly living.
He also prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family and urged the congregation to examine their lives and make peace with God, expressing hope that the legacy of Elder Emmanuel would inspire others to live purposeful and impactful lives.
The wake, funeral service and interment were attended by media practitioners, community leaders, church members and well-wishers, many of whom paid glowing tributes to the late correspondent.
Colleagues described Elder Emmanuel as a committed and principled Journalist who was passionate about truth and professional ethics. They noted that his years of service to journalism in Kwara State, as well as his leadership role in the NUJ, would remain a reference point for younger reporters.
Until his death, Elder Emmanuel was widely respected in media circles for his dedication to duty and unwavering commitment to the growth and development of the journalism profession in Kwara State. He was 69 years old.
