Alaafin mourns late Rev Suulola, describes him as morally excellent

By Adejayan Gbenga

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has described the late Reverend Dr. Akintayo Olufunmilade Suulola as a morally excellent person whose life reflected good virtues, integrity and devotion to humanity.

The monarch expressed his condolences in a statement issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, to the family of the deceased, an Oyo-born prominent prince, chartered accountant, evangelical preacher and General Overseer of Scripture Group Mission.

According to the statement, Suulola died abroad while on a global crusade, although details surrounding his death were not disclosed, as the Alaafin commended his perseverance and devotion to his divine calling throughout nearly five decades of ministry.

Oba Owoade said the late clergyman remained committed to doing what was right regardless of personal cost, describing him as an honest man who demonstrated sincerity, integrity and candour in his dealings with others.

The Alaafin noted that Suulola began his evangelism in Oyo town, where his conduct and behaviour became a source of inspiration and pride to the traditional institution, adding that he combined deep spiritual commitment with practical love for people.

He also praised the deceased for his strong prayer life, knowledge of scripture, humility, compassion, enthusiasm and gentle spirit, describing him as a good listener who remained committed to personal witnessing, showed love to his critics and persevered throughout his ministry.

Furthermore, Oba Owoade commended Suulola’s attachment to Yoruba culture, saying he believed that worshipping God through one’s culture was not sinful and often praised God through traditional expressions, including dancing to talking drums, Bata and other traditional drums, while rejecting idolatry.

While sympathising with the deceased’s family, including his aged mother, the Alaafin said death was not the greatest loss in life, but what dies inside people while they are still alive, describing Suulola as a remarkable human being whose work left a lasting impact and urging his family to bear the loss with courage.