I started relating closely with Late Bro. Emmanuel Baanu Abolarin around 1996 when we met every first Saturday of the month for the meeting of the Committee of Saints, then, working for the establishment of West Nigeria Christian College, Abeokuta. He travelled all the way from Ado-Odo to Church of Christ, Egbeda, Lagos, on meeting days. He was our Vice Chairman. He was very committed and consistent and will be one of those who would come on time in spite of the distance he had to cover to be at the meeting.
When West Nigeria Christian College & School of Biblical Studies, eventually came on stream in 1999, he identified with and supported it through tick and thin. Except for a year or two, he meaningfully participated in all the annual programmes of the college from the Annual Preachers and Church Leaders Workshop, Graduation Ceremony, to the Annual Bible Lectureship. In addition to other contributions, he usually coordinate material support for our lectureships from Ado-Odo axis and ensured that those foodstuffs are brought in on time. In spite of his age, he stays with other members of the Committee of Saints in the kitchen to ensure that meals were served on time to lectureship participants. In the midst of this, he takes time to interpret for speakers in the main auditorium and effectively participate in the late evening A cappella concerts.
He was also a wonderful grass root students recruiter for the college, especially from Ado-Odo/Badagry axis. Not less than fifty graduates of the college including two of his biological daughters and two foster children graduated from WNCC and now serving as ministers and church leaders across congregations of Lord’s Church all over Nigeria. Several of these graduates are also in secular field, some with terminal degrees and are astute professionals in various disciplines. His legacy in this area looms large.
For the Christian Restoration Heritage Foundation (also known as the Committee of Saints) a big vacuum which will be difficult to fill has been created by his demise. He believed in the mission of WNCC and diligently and consistently worked for the growth of the college. At a point when some deserted the group, he stood his ground. He remained faithful to the cause he believed in till the end. It is so painful that our rank is gradually been depleted. He has gone to join saints triumphant, the likes of Daniel Ojeh, Anthony Akinola, Andrew Isiip, Ileta Beckloff, Michael Moka and lately, James Beckloff, who variously served the Lord though the ministry of WNCC and have gone to their reward.
A tree is best measured when cut and laid on the ground.So it is for us as humans. The Yorubas ingeniously, put it this way, ‘Eniyan osunwo laye, ijo abaku ladere.’ We have lost a spiritual giant, a Christian from core to crust, vintage Omoluabi, humble, amiable, selfless, uncommon family man, Opomulero mojalekan, humanity personified, Christianity exemplified.
Adieu, Baba Ado, till the resurrection morning when we shall meet to part no more.
Bro. (Dr) Biodun Owolabi President, West Nigeria Christian College & School of Biblical Studies. Abeokuta, Ogun State.
TRIBUTE TO MY BELOVED FATHER-IN-LOVE Grandpa as I fondly call you, I only knew you for 13 years but seems we've known each other since I was in my cradle. I could vividly remember your words when my husband brought me to Ado-Odo for introduction. You and grandma are just too selfless to a fault. If I begin,I will not conclude. I never knew the last time I will set my eyes on you was the time you and grandma came visiting. Fola will always tune the TV to your favourite channel-NTA where you listened to updates on Covid-19. Thankfully,the lockdown made you stay longer than you planned. We engaged in so many teachings of the Bible and you delivered excellently.I asked so many questions,we learned and unlearned, argued on some beliefs and so on. You narrated your story and it heightened my faith. You took everyone as your own. You celebrated every achievement. Prayer was your key to every situation. E je ki a gbadura (let's pray) still rings in my head. I always look forward to all your morning devotion because it's divine. Now, the children can sing so many hymns, all thanks to you. The yoruba lessons you gave them was second to none- ookan,eeji,eeta. You made sure you lived your life with no spot nor wrinkle, following the footsteps of Christ. You lived a life of positive impact that the little ones could feel your absence even while you were still alive. No wonder Yosola got so attached to you that she cried the day you travelled back home. Grateful to God for allowing us relish the moment together while looking forward to another reunion. Now, you are no more, no one to call the children's names in such a funny way you did. They are yet to get over the shock when we broke the news of your demise. Aanu was named after you and his father, hoping to see you for the first time soon. You lived for Christ and humanity- what you enjoyed most and you died for it. Glory be to God. If, we have more people of excellent virtues like you,the world would be a better place and heaven will gain more souls. I know you would not want us to mourn but celebrate your life and continue to follow the legacy you left behind. I now promise to cry no more but fill my thoughts with your sweet memories, so help me God. Adieu grandpa, keep resting in glory till we meet to part no more✍️✍️✍️. Your daughter-in-law, Tinuola Titilayo Abolarin
#32GLORIOUS EXIT OF A FATHER —
Emmanuel Baanu ABOLARIN2023-12-15 13:43
By: Olawoyin Family
GLORIOUS EXIT OF A FATHER
Our hearts are heavy upon hearing the news of your departure. Daddy Beta, as you were affectionately called, penned in your article titled 'LEGACY/MENTOR' during our father's burial two years ago: 'Brother Joseph Olawoyin was the best Bishop that was never ordained.'
However, we assert that Brother Emmanuel Baanu Abolarin was truly the epitome of an unordained bishop. Since the 70s, when your path intersected with our father's, you became his right-hand person both spiritually and physically.
We fondly recall how, as early as 6 am, you would knock on our door for discussions with our father, joining us in morning devotion before delving into business matters. You embodied humility, simplicity, a good heart, generosity, and unwavering dedication.
Daddy Beta left an indelible mark on countless lives through his teachings, lifestyle, advice, and words of encouragement.
Your wisdom addressed every situation and provided admonitions when veering off course, guiding others onto the right path.
A true inspiration, spiritual father, friend, and counselor. Oh, death, why! You eloquently preached, seamlessly weaving together the Bible and Quran.
You simplified Christianity, showcasing versatility in knowledge, always ready to impart wisdom. Your tireless efforts and commitment resonate, and you have successfully finished the race. As we reflect on your life, we find solace in the Lord.
Even in death, your profound impact reverberates. We love and miss you deeply, but God's love for you is greater.
Your legacies endure.
Farewell, God's gallant soldier.
From Olawoyin's.
#31A tribute to my Dear Uncle —
Opeyemi Abolarin2023-12-13 07:44
It is so hard and difficult to believe that my Uncle and second Daddy has left this world, I keep looking at his contact on my phone believing if I call he will pick up.
Within the past year, our relationship - communication got better. You showed me so much love and the need to stand tall, always praying for my success and the need to take charge of my future. I will forever cherish those moments and the fatherly advice.
My consolation is that you lived a good and Christ-like life which always makes me feel better. During my visit to Ado-odo, I noticed the likeness by people around you even last year when we met in Lagos.
We spoke recently, and I had plannned on visiting you but this didn’t materialize. I am happy for the life well spent.
Keep resting in the Bossom of The Almighty till we meet to part no more. Sleep well Daddy.
Your Nephew Opeyemi Oluwasegun Abolarin
#30TRIBUTE TO MY GREAT SERVANT LEADER OF CHRIST —
Emmanuel Baanu ABOLARIN2023-12-11 08:11
By: Adeoye Emmanuel
TRIBUTE TO MY GREAT SERVANT LEADER OF CHRIST
A day I wish never came; a day I wished wasn’t in calendar. It was a black Thursday. It was the day the man I love and respect most passed on.
Oh death, how could you have come this early. Death came and stole my Hero and a Lovely Father. He meant so much to me.
Papa, your transition to the new abode left a void in us that no one can ever fill. After a brief illness, we sadly say Goodbye to an Icon who brought joy to us as your children and entire family.
I would have loved you to stay longer with us to see you enjoy the fruit of all your endeavours but the decision of God is supreme.
Papa, lived a life of generosity, kind heartedness, dignity and love. You were a selfless giver that loved pleasing people more than yourself.
Papa, as we bid you goodbye, may the light of God brighten your path to eternal rest in Jesus Mighty Name, Amen.
Adieu: Daddy Ba'anu Emmanuel Abolarin
#29How I wish you were still alive to witness me collecting my awards. —
Emmanuel Baanu ABOLARIN2023-12-10 17:03
By your granddaughter Anthonia Kolawole
How I wish you were still alive to witness me collecting my awards.
Tributes to my loving Grandfather. How I wish you were still alive to witness me collecting my awards. You died on the night I wanted to collect the first award not to talk of the second one. You an an icon and a great Icon at that. I would have loved to see more of you but you left so soon. I always think of about what I would have done if you were still alive. I miss you so much grandpa. Adieu Emmanuel Baanu Abolarin.
#28You never told me you will leave so soon. —
Emmanuel Baanu ABOLARIN2023-12-10 17:01
By: Tejumoluwa Abolarin Grandson
You never told me you will leave so soon.
Tribute to my grandfather Oh! grandpa why? You never told me you will leave so soon. You haven't teach me enough, why did you leave without saying goodbye. Your memories will forever remain in our lives,it is hard to say this.May your soul rest in perfect peace.
#27Tributes to the world best Grandfather. —
Emmanuel Baanu ABOLARIN2023-12-10 16:59
By: Kolawole Anita Grand daughter
Tributes to the world best Grandfather.
My Grandfather was one of the people I cherished most. Losing you is the greatest shock I have ever had. Your love and memories we shared will forever remain in my heart. Rest in peace grandpa, till we meet to part no more.
#26You left us at the least expected time —
Emmanuel Baanu ABOLARIN2023-12-10 16:55
By: Ife Kolawole-Abolarin
You left us at the least expected time.
Daddy, you left us at the least expected time, but we know that God planned it that way. You lived your entire life for God, your children, and the humanity. I grew up to know you as a loving father and a disciplinarian. I wonder how you were able to balance this up, though I later realized that you were created specially and differently for a purpose.
You brought us up spiritually and made us to appreciate the benefits of always being in God’s presence, the need to make God a priority, the need to have His word as our guide, have it in our hearts, in our mouths (through the daily and weekly memory verses). You taught us how to prepare and deliver bible lessons, right from the cradle, without misinterpretation on of the scriptures.
You ensured that through thick and thin, we all had quality secular education, and that such must be used to positively impact the society as you did. Through you, we learnt the need to be assets and not liabilities to the society, this guided our choice of individual careers. I cannot forget all your efforts to ensure that we could read and write even before we started formal schooling by creating time to teach and put us right.
You taught us morals and made us to see the reasons to have right disposition to life, despite all the distractions and negative influences around us. With your guidance, we remained focused all through.
Your attitude to prayers is second to none in everything, you were selfless, and consistent with it, and many battles were won through your faith and devotions.
Your love for music cannot be overemphasized, you touched, inspired, and blessed so many lives through this. I will forever miss your sweet voice while singing.
You were so delighted in a happy home, just as you had, and that made you to be instrumental to settling social, marital, and related issues which eventually led many to Christ.
Daddy mi, your hospitality cannot be compared to that of anyone I’ve ever met because you did it with all diligence. You chose to live peacefully with all men as you preached it. Being industrious, creative, prudent, intelligent, loving and godly had touched so many lives and restored hope to the hopeless. Most times, you brought up new ideas/thongs out of the least considered useful things. You made good name for us in town, and out of town in such a way that wherever we go, and your name is being mentioned, we always hear the testimonies of your good deeds. You ensured that the gospel was preached and planted wherever you found yourself and such was sustained with God on your side.
Your loyalty with customers and business partners paved ways for you in many ways.
I could remember that many parents wanted their children to live with us because of the way God helped you to bring us up and your efforts to ensure that everyone around you lived purposefully and fulfilling. You left an indelible mark on the path of everyone that came across you.
Thank God that we yielded to instructions and corrections which made you always proud of us. Your love for children (both related and non-related) was superb, and your humility to always gather your grandchildren from time-to-time, teaching them songs, morals, life stories, bible lessons, and good living.
Daddy, I found no fault in you with all our dealings together while you were alive. Your special and sweet ways of calling our names cannot be forgotten so soon.
The time and the situations surrounding your exit was painful because that’s when I promised to pay back for believing in me, and my ability to have my dream come through.
I am assured that you’ve been to the place where we will live together to part no more.
#25A great personal inspiration —
Emmanuel Baanu ABOLARIN2023-12-10 16:45
By: Joy Bolarin COC Oro Ago
A great personal inspiration
Baba Bolarin was a great personal inspiration to me on humility in service and a good example to emulate by other Christians across the globe.
During annual Bible lecture at WNCC Abeokuta, in the morning during cleaning of the surrounding by the youth, he was the only adult that joined the youth during environmental cleaning at WNCC not as a supervisor but as participant, he will be picking pieces of paper together with the youth having fun in service to God and humanity, he is always cheerful in doing the work of God.
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Emmanuel Baanu Abolarin: Humanity Personified, Christianity Exemplified
I started relating closely with Late Bro. Emmanuel Baanu Abolarin around 1996 when we met every first Saturday of the month for the meeting of the Committee of Saints, then, working for the establishment of West Nigeria Christian College, Abeokuta. He travelled all the way from Ado-Odo to Church of Christ, Egbeda, Lagos, on meeting days. He was our Vice Chairman. He was very committed and consistent and will be one of those who would come on time in spite of the distance he had to cover to be at the meeting.
When West Nigeria Christian College & School of Biblical Studies, eventually came on stream in 1999, he identified with and supported it through tick and thin. Except for a year or two, he meaningfully participated in all the annual programmes of the college from the Annual Preachers and Church Leaders Workshop, Graduation Ceremony, to the Annual Bible Lectureship. In addition to other contributions, he usually coordinate material support for our lectureships from Ado-Odo axis and ensured that those foodstuffs are brought in on time. In spite of his age, he stays with other members of the Committee of Saints in the kitchen to ensure that meals were served on time to lectureship participants. In the midst of this, he takes time to interpret for speakers in the main auditorium and effectively participate in the late evening A cappella concerts.
He was also a wonderful grass root students recruiter for the college, especially from Ado-Odo/Badagry axis. Not less than fifty graduates of the college including two of his biological daughters and two foster children graduated from WNCC and now serving as ministers and church leaders across congregations of Lord’s Church all over Nigeria. Several of these graduates are also in secular field, some with terminal degrees and are astute professionals in various disciplines. His legacy in this area looms large.
For the Christian Restoration Heritage Foundation (also known as the Committee of Saints) a big vacuum which will be difficult to fill has been created by his demise. He believed in the mission of WNCC and diligently and consistently worked for the growth of the college. At a point when some deserted the group, he stood his ground. He remained faithful to the cause he believed in till the end. It is so painful that our rank is gradually been depleted. He has gone to join saints triumphant, the likes of Daniel Ojeh, Anthony Akinola, Andrew Isiip, Ileta Beckloff, Michael Moka and lately, James Beckloff, who variously served the Lord though the ministry of WNCC and have gone to their reward.
A tree is best measured when cut and laid on the ground.So it is for us as humans. The Yorubas ingeniously, put it this way, ‘Eniyan osunwo laye, ijo abaku ladere.’ We have lost a spiritual giant, a Christian from core to crust, vintage Omoluabi, humble, amiable, selfless, uncommon family man, Opomulero mojalekan, humanity personified, Christianity exemplified.
Adieu, Baba Ado, till the resurrection morning when we shall meet to part no more.
Bro. (Dr) Biodun Owolabi
President,
West Nigeria Christian College & School of Biblical Studies.
Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Grandpa as I fondly call you, I only knew you for 13 years but seems we've known each other since I was in my cradle. I could vividly remember your words when my husband brought me to Ado-Odo for introduction. You and grandma are just too selfless to a fault. If I begin,I will not conclude. I never knew the last time I will set my eyes on you was the time you and grandma came visiting. Fola will always tune the TV to your favourite channel-NTA where you listened to updates on Covid-19. Thankfully,the lockdown made you stay longer than you planned. We engaged in so many teachings of the Bible and you delivered excellently.I asked so many questions,we learned and unlearned, argued on some beliefs and so on. You narrated your story and it heightened my faith. You took everyone as your own. You celebrated every achievement. Prayer was your key to every situation. E je ki a gbadura (let's pray) still rings in my head. I always look forward to all your morning devotion because it's divine. Now, the children can sing so many hymns, all thanks to you. The yoruba lessons you gave them was second to none- ookan,eeji,eeta . You made sure you lived your life with no spot nor wrinkle, following the footsteps of Christ. You lived a life of positive impact that the little ones could feel your absence even while you were still alive. No wonder Yosola got so attached to you that she cried the day you travelled back home. Grateful to God for allowing us relish the moment together while looking forward to another reunion.
Now, you are no more, no one to call the children's names in such a funny way you did. They are yet to get over the shock when we broke the news of your demise. Aanu was named after you and his father, hoping to see you for the first time soon. You lived for Christ and humanity- what you enjoyed most and you died for it. Glory be to God.
If, we have more people of excellent virtues like you,the world would be a better place and heaven will gain more souls. I know you would not want us to mourn but celebrate your life and continue to follow the legacy you left behind.
I now promise to cry no more but fill my thoughts with your sweet memories, so help me God.
Adieu grandpa, keep resting in glory till we meet to part no more✍️✍️✍️.
Your daughter-in-law,
Tinuola Titilayo Abolarin
GLORIOUS EXIT OF A FATHER
Our hearts are heavy upon hearing the news of your departure. Daddy Beta, as you were affectionately called, penned in your article titled 'LEGACY/MENTOR' during our father's burial two years ago: 'Brother Joseph Olawoyin was the best Bishop that was never ordained.'
However, we assert that Brother Emmanuel Baanu Abolarin was truly the epitome of an unordained bishop. Since the 70s, when your path intersected with our father's, you became his right-hand person both spiritually and physically.
We fondly recall how, as early as 6 am, you would knock on our door for discussions with our father, joining us in morning devotion before delving into business matters. You embodied humility, simplicity, a good heart, generosity, and unwavering dedication.
Daddy Beta left an indelible mark on countless lives through his teachings, lifestyle, advice, and words of encouragement.
Your wisdom addressed every situation and provided admonitions when veering off course, guiding others onto the right path.
A true inspiration, spiritual father, friend, and counselor. Oh, death, why! You eloquently preached, seamlessly weaving together the Bible and Quran.
You simplified Christianity, showcasing versatility in knowledge, always ready to impart wisdom. Your tireless efforts and commitment resonate, and you have successfully finished the race. As we reflect on your life, we find solace in the Lord.
Even in death, your profound impact reverberates. We love and miss you deeply, but God's love for you is greater.
Your legacies endure.
Farewell, God's gallant soldier.
From Olawoyin's.
Within the past year, our relationship - communication got better. You showed me so much love and the need to stand tall, always praying for my success and the need to take charge of my future. I will forever cherish those moments and the fatherly advice.
My consolation is that you lived a good and Christ-like life which always makes me feel better. During my visit to Ado-odo, I noticed the likeness by people around you even last year when we met in Lagos.
We spoke recently, and I had plannned on visiting you but this didn’t materialize. I am happy for the life well spent.
Keep resting in the Bossom of The Almighty till we meet to part no more.
Sleep well Daddy.
Your Nephew
Opeyemi Oluwasegun Abolarin
TRIBUTE TO MY GREAT SERVANT LEADER OF CHRIST
A day I wish never came; a day I wished wasn’t in calendar. It was a black Thursday. It was the day the man I love and respect most passed on.
Oh death, how could you have come this early. Death came and stole my Hero and a Lovely Father. He meant so much to me.
Papa, your transition to the new abode left a void in us that no one can ever fill. After a brief illness, we sadly say Goodbye to an Icon who brought joy to us as your children and entire family.
I would have loved you to stay longer with us to see you enjoy the fruit of all your endeavours but the decision of God is supreme.
Papa, lived a life of generosity, kind heartedness, dignity and love. You were a selfless giver that loved pleasing people more than yourself.
Papa, as we bid you goodbye, may the light of God brighten your path to eternal rest in Jesus Mighty Name, Amen.
Adieu: Daddy Ba'anu Emmanuel Abolarin
How I wish you were still alive to witness me collecting my awards.
Tributes to my loving Grandfather. How I wish you were still alive to witness me collecting my awards. You died on the night I wanted to collect the first award not to talk of the second one. You an an icon and a great Icon at that. I would have loved to see more of you but you left so soon. I always think of about what I would have done if you were still alive. I miss you so much grandpa. Adieu Emmanuel Baanu Abolarin.
You never told me you will leave so soon.
Tribute to my grandfather Oh! grandpa why? You never told me you will leave so soon. You haven't teach me enough, why did you leave without saying goodbye. Your memories will forever remain in our lives,it is hard to say this.May your soul rest in perfect peace.
Tributes to the world best Grandfather.
My Grandfather was one of the people I cherished most. Losing you is the greatest shock I have ever had. Your love and memories we shared will forever remain in my heart. Rest in peace grandpa, till we meet to part no more.
You left us at the least expected time.
Daddy, you left us at the least expected time, but we know that God planned it that way. You lived your entire life for God, your children, and the humanity. I grew up to know you as a loving father and a disciplinarian. I wonder how you were able to balance this up, though I later realized that you were created specially and differently for a purpose.
You brought us up spiritually and made us to appreciate the benefits of always being in God’s presence, the need to make God a priority, the need to have His word as our guide, have it in our hearts, in our mouths (through the daily and weekly memory verses). You taught us how to prepare and deliver bible lessons, right from the cradle, without misinterpretati on on of the scriptures.
You ensured that through thick and thin, we all had quality secular education, and that such must be used to positively impact the society as you did. Through you, we learnt the need to be assets and not liabilities to the society, this guided our choice of individual careers. I cannot forget all your efforts to ensure that we could read and write even before we started formal schooling by creating time to teach and put us right.
You taught us morals and made us to see the reasons to have right disposition to life, despite all the distractions and negative influences around us. With your guidance, we remained focused all through.
Your attitude to prayers is second to none in everything, you were selfless, and consistent with it, and many battles were won through your faith and devotions.
Your love for music cannot be overemphasized, you touched, inspired, and blessed so many lives through this. I will forever miss your sweet voice while singing.
You were so delighted in a happy home, just as you had, and that made you to be instrumental to settling social, marital, and related issues which eventually led many to Christ.
Daddy mi, your hospitality cannot be compared to that of anyone I’ve ever met because you did it with all diligence. You chose to live peacefully with all men as you preached it. Being industrious, creative, prudent, intelligent, loving and godly had touched so many lives and restored hope to the hopeless. Most times, you brought up new ideas/thongs out of the least considered useful things. You made good name for us in town, and out of town in such a way that wherever we go, and your name is being mentioned, we always hear the testimonies of your good deeds. You ensured that the gospel was preached and planted wherever you found yourself and such was sustained with God on your side.
Your loyalty with customers and business partners paved ways for you in many ways.
I could remember that many parents wanted their children to live with us because of the way God helped you to bring us up and your efforts to ensure that everyone around you lived purposefully and fulfilling. You left an indelible mark on the path of everyone that came across you.
Thank God that we yielded to instructions and corrections which made you always proud of us. Your love for children (both related and non-related) was superb, and your humility to always gather your grandchildren from time-to-time, teaching them songs, morals, life stories, bible lessons, and good living.
Daddy, I found no fault in you with all our dealings together while you were alive. Your special and sweet ways of calling our names cannot be forgotten so soon.
The time and the situations surrounding your exit was painful because that’s when I promised to pay back for believing in me, and my ability to have my dream come through.
I am assured that you’ve been to the place where we will live together to part no more.
A great personal inspiration
Baba Bolarin was a great personal inspiration to me on humility in service and a good example to emulate by other Christians across the globe.
During annual Bible lecture at WNCC Abeokuta, in the morning during cleaning of the surrounding by the youth, he was the only adult that joined the youth during environmental cleaning at WNCC not as a supervisor but as participant, he will be picking pieces of paper together with the youth having fun in service to God and humanity, he is always cheerful in doing the work of God.