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Ilorin stood still on Thursday and Friday as journalists, church members, family and friends gathered to honour the late Elder Emmanuel Olayiwola Olarewaju (JP), Kwara State Correspondent of The Sun newspaper and former Chairman of the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kwara State Council.
The Christian wake and service of songs held at Mount Olives Hall, Pipeline Road, Ilorin, attracted a large turnout, while the funeral service took place at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Heavens Gate Provincial Headquarters, F-Division, Tanke.
Delivering his message at both events, the Zonal Pastor of RCCG, Ilorin, Pastor Abiodun Fagbemi, urged mourners to see the late journalist’s passing as a call to sober reflection on life and eternity.
“Life is a journey that requires adequate preparation. The greatest investment any man can make is the investment in his soul,” he said. “There is nothing of greater and lasting value than the salvation of your soul.”
The cleric noted that funerals often draw people for different reasons but stressed the need for personal introspection and a renewed commitment to God.
Referencing the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Pastor Fagbemi explained that while many witnessed the crucifixion, only those who understood the message of salvation embraced the hope of eternal life.
“If you live according to the flesh, it leads to death, but if you live by the Spirit, you have life. You must be led by the Spirit of God,” he declared. “What is it that you possess today that will last forever? Only the salvation of your soul guarantees eternity.”
He cautioned Christians against abusing grace, warning that sin must not dominate the life of a believer. According to him, righteousness, integrity and faithful service to God remain the pathway to divine blessings.
Addressing journalists and other professionals present, the pastor challenged them to use their platforms to advance godly values and serve humanity.
“Influence, wealth and status cannot replace integrity and godly living. Whatever position you occupy, let it count for God and for the good of society,” he added.
He prayed for divine comfort for the bereaved family and expressed hope that the life and legacy of Elder Emmanuel would inspire others to live with purpose and eternal focus.
Media practitioners, community leaders and well-wishers who attended the wake, funeral service and interment paid glowing tributes to the late correspondent, describing him as a principled and dedicated journalist.
Colleagues recalled his passion for truth, professional ethics and mentorship of younger reporters, noting that his leadership at the NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel in Kwara State would remain a benchmark for commitment and service.
Until his death, Elder Emmanuel was widely respected in media circles across Kwara State for his unwavering dedication to duty and his contributions to the growth of journalism in the state.
