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By Richard Adewale
Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Egbe-Ijebu came alive with pomp, colour and celebration recently, as the Order of Knights of St. Mulumba, Ijebu-Ode Sub-Council, held a grand investiture and thanksgiving ceremony that attracted members, dignitaries, and well-wishers.
The event marked the formal induction of new members into the prestigious Catholic Order, with Sir and Lady John Olashore, Sir and Lady Fidelis Samson, Sir and Lady Paul Salau, Sir and Lady Francis Oginni, and Sir and Lady Samuel Aguihe taking their place among the distinguished ranks of the Knights and Ladies of St. Mulumba.
Three others – Sir Joseph Olusanya, Sir Sina Salami and Sir Michael Ilori, with their Ladies, were elevated to the second Degree (rank) of the Order.
In a solemn but inspiring induction session, the Worthy Advocate, Sir Joshua Mabinuori, acquainted the newly admitted members with the constitution and guiding principles of the Order. He urged them to uphold its values and regulations, stressing that discipline, integrity, and commitment remain the pillars of the organisation.
Sir Olu Akala, representing the Worthy Chancellor, enjoined the inductees to always remember that they were fortunate to be among those chosen to contribute their time, treasure and talent to the expansion of Christ kingdom.
Following the induction, the outgoing Grand Knight, Prof Patrick Akinsanya, warmly welcomed the new members and formally presented them to the gathering, describing their admission as another step toward strengthening the Order’s mission of faith, service, and charity.
Delivering a thought-provoking homily during the thanksgiving Mass, Rev. Fr. Daniel Ogunsanya emphasised the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the Holy Trinity, describing the Spirit as co-equal and co-eternal with God the Father and God the Son. He commended the Knights for their unwavering dedication to evangelisation and humanitarian service, urging them to continue championing justice, peace, love, and harmony within society.
The celebrations shifted into a joyous reception after the Mass, where Sir Akinsanya officially introduced the newly elected Grand Knight, Sir Wilson Obi, a retired General who is expected to assume office formally at the next meeting of the Order.
Reflecting on his four-year administration, Sir Akinsanya recounted both the challenges and milestones recorded during his tenure. He expressed gratitude for the support and cooperation of members, noting with pride that the Order had achieved significant financial stability under his leadership.
He also appealed to members to sustain their commitment to the proposed Secretariat project at Odo-Arawa, whose foundation was laid during his administration, describing the project as a critical investment in the future of the Order.
In an emotional moment, the outgoing Grand Knight pledged his continued support for the growth and progress of the organisation and specially commended the Public Relations Officer, Sir Richard Adewale, for his dedication, loyalty, and selfless service. He also appreciated the unfettered support, cooperation and commitment of the president of the Ladies of St Mulumba, Lady (Prof) Abolanle Adefuye .He implored her not relent in her quest toward the upliftment of the Ladies wing of the Order.
Giving the vote of thanks, the Financial Secretary, Sir Anthony Fakorede, lauded the achievements of the outgoing executive council and challenged the incoming leadership to consolidate on the successes already recorded.
The memorable ceremony ended on a high note as members and guests celebrated the achievements of the Order, welcomed the newly inducted Knights and Ladies, and looked forward with optimism to a new chapter of leadership and service.
