Egba Christian leaders honor Okenla 144 years after his death

Toyyibah Quasim

The Egba Christian Chiefs Council has honored the memory of the late Chief John Owolotan Okenla, a revered Christian warrior and pioneer of faith in Egba land, 144 years after his death.

The anniversary was celebrated with a thanksgiving service at Ebenezer Baptist Church, Oke-Saje, Abeokuta, Ogun State, where Christian leaders and dignitaries celebrated Okenla’s contribution to the growth and spread of Christianity among the Egba people.

Delivering the sermon at the service, Rev. Dr. Olurotimi Afuwape urged Christians to draw inspiration from the sacrifices of past Christian leaders while keeping their eyes firmly fixed on Jesus Christ.

Speaking from Hebrews 12, he encouraged the congregation to remain steadfast in their faith and preserve the legacy of those who contributed to the founding and development of Christianity in the land of Egba.

Afuwape stressed that remembering the sacrifices of heroes of the past should inspire the current generation to deepen their commitment to the Christian faith and service to humanity.

At a reception held after the Thanksgiving service, the Balogun of Egba Council of Christian Chiefs, Chief Dr. Joseph Oke, expressed satisfaction with the commemoration.

Oke charged the younger generations to protect and uphold the legacy passed down by their predecessors, saying the activities of the council continue to demonstrate the enduring influence and importance of Christianity in Ogun State and Nigeria.

Also, the Osi of the Egba Christian Chiefs Council, Festus Kehinde, described Okenla as a courageous warrior and a committed Christian who remained steadfast in his faith even during difficult times.

Kehinde said it is believed that Okenla went to war with his Bible, firmly believing that victory could only be achieved through the guidance of God.

According to him, Okenla’s exploits on the battlefield eventually earned him recognition from the Alake of Egbaland, who rewarded him with the title of Balogun.

He added that in addition to his exploits as a warrior, Okenla was deeply committed to evangelism and used his life to promote and preach the Christian faith.

The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Prince Ifekayode Akinbode, who represented the Ogun State governorship candidate of the All Pogressuves Congress, Senator Olamilekan Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.

Akinbode, in his speech, called on Christians to intensify prayers for Nigeria, Ogun State and society, stressing the importance of divine intervention in addressing the challenges facing the country.

He also promised that any support sought by the Egba Christian Chiefs Council will receive the attention and consideration of the governorship aspirant.

The 144th anniversary of the remembrance provided an opportunity for members of the Egba Christian Chiefs Council, church leaders and other dignitaries to celebrate the legacy of Okenla and reaffirm their commitment to preserving the Christian heritage and history of the Egba people.

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