The Bishop of Ilesa South West Diocese, Adebola Ayodeji Ojofeitimi, has called on Christians to uphold faith and hope in the face of death, describing it as a transition that should inspire joy for believers.
The bishop made the call on Saturday during the funeral service of Sir Chief Michael Olumuyiwa Falomo, the Lofosan of Ilesa, held at the Cathedral Church of St. John in Ilesa.
A correspondent of KAKAKIOODUA Online Media Agency was on ground to cover both the wake-keep held on Friday, April 10, 2026, and the funeral service on Saturday, April 11, 2026, providing comprehensive photo news coverage of the well-attended events.
The ceremonies attracted dignitaries, family members, and associates from across Nigeria, all gathered to honour the life and legacy of the late elder statesman.
In his sermon, Bishop Ojofeitimi acknowledged the pain of losing loved ones but stressed that Christians have cause to rejoice when a believer passes on.
“We do not wish for our loved ones to go, and their departure is always painful. However, for a believer, death is not the end but a homecoming. We can rejoice,” he said.
He likened death to sleep, noting that although it remains an enemy that once held humanity in bondage, its power has been overcome through faith. He added that death would ultimately be destroyed and all tears wiped away, assuring the congregation of eternal hope.
Reflecting on the life of the deceased, the bishop described Chief Falomo as a man who lived a fulfilled and impactful life rooted in Christ, which enabled him to remain joyful regardless of circumstances. He urged attendees to embrace Christ, citing biblical teachings that emphasise a meaningful and purposeful life through faith.
Chief Falomo, who died at the age of 87, was widely regarded as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s broadcasting and advertising sectors.
Born in Ilesa to Papa Ekunsanmi Falomo of Ifosan Quarters and Mrs. Emily Oyinlola Falomo (née Olakanlo) of the Arapate chieftaincy family, he was educated at Government College Ibadan and later at the College for Distributive Trades in London.
He developed an early passion for drama, featuring in stage productions and later gaining prominence for his role as “Alao the Master Driver” in the popular radio soap opera Save Journey. He was also an accomplished swimmer and served as the first Secretary of the Lagos Amateur Swimming Association in 1964.
His career began at the Nigerian Broadcasting Corporation in 1957, before moving to Western Nigeria Television (WNTV) and Western Nigeria Broadcasting Service (WNBS), where he became one of the pioneers of television and commercial radio broadcasting in Nigeria.
In 1963, he transitioned into advertising, rising through the ranks at Lintas Limited and later serving as Executive Director at Ogilvy, Benson & Mather Nigeria Limited. He went on to establish Forum Advertising Limited in 1986, where he served as Chief Executive.
Chief Falomo held several leadership positions in corporate and professional bodies, including serving as Chairman and Director of Reckitt Nigeria Limited for decades. He was also a Past President of the Association of Advertising Agencies of Nigeria and the Nigerian chapter of the International Advertising Association, and a former Chairman of the Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria.
Beyond his professional achievements, he was actively involved in philanthropy and community service, serving on the boards of several organisations, including the Federal Nigeria Society for the Blind and Chrisland University, Abeokuta.
A prominent social figure, he was a member of elite clubs such as Island Club Lagos and Ikoyi Club 1938, and remained deeply connected to his roots in Ilesa.
A devout Christian, Chief Falomo was a dedicated member of the Cathedral Church of Christ, where he served in various leadership capacities and was honoured with the Cathedral Parish Award in 2000. He was also a Knight of St John in the Anglican Diocese of Ilesa.
He is survived by children and grandchildren.
Chief Michael Olumuyiwa Falomo is remembered for his immense contributions to media, advertising, community development, and the Christian faith.
Coverage, script ✍️ Camera 📸 Credit Oladimeji Lasore (+2347035105413, [email protected])
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