The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has described the death of renowned cleric, Reverend Dr. Akintayo Olufunmilade Suulola, as a significant loss to the Oyo Kingdom, the Christian community and humanity.
The monarch expressed his condolences in a statement issued through his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, following the death of the clergyman, who reportedly died abroad after participating in a global evangelical crusade.
Rev. Suulola, an Oyo-born prince, Chartered Accountant, evangelical preacher and General Overseer of Scripture Group Mission (SGM), was said to have spent nearly five decades in Christian ministry.
Oba Owoade described the late cleric as a man of integrity, honesty, perseverance and strong moral values, noting that his life and ministry brought honour to the Oyo Kingdom.
According to the Alaafin, Suulola successfully combined spiritual commitment with genuine concern for humanity. He praised the deceased for his deep knowledge of the Scriptures, prayerfulness, humility, compassion and dedication to evangelism.
The monarch also recalled the cleric’s gentle disposition, ability to listen, personal evangelism and willingness to show love even to those who criticised him.
Oba Owoade particularly commended Rev. Suulola’s appreciation of Yoruba culture. He noted that the late preacher consistently maintained that indigenous culture was not opposed to Christianity, stressing that idolatry, rather than culture itself, was what Scripture condemned.
The Alaafin recalled that Suulola openly embraced aspects of traditional Yoruba culture, including dancing to talking drums and Bata, while maintaining his Christian faith.
Describing the cleric as “a nice man to the core” and a remarkable human being, Oba Owoade said his death came as a painful shock to those who knew and interacted with him.
He said the late preacher’s passing would be deeply felt by his family, the church and the wider Oyo community, given the impact of his ministry and humanitarian disposition.
The monarch extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, particularly his aged mother, and urged them to remain courageous as they mourn their loss.
“Please bear the shock, Mama. With deep sympathy to you and your family,” the Alaafin said, while offering prayers for the bereaved family.
