ForeverMissed
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This memorial website was created in memory of our loved one, Oyelakin Lawal, 79 years old, born on June 4, 1941, and passed away on January 23, 2021. We will remember him forever.
January 23
January 23
An author says, "Nothing can ever take away the love a heart holds dear. Fond memories linger every day, and remembrance keep them near."

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. I hold those memories so dear.

Keep resting dear Father till we meet to part no more.
#BabaBunmi.
#ThirdYearRemembranceOfMyDad.
#MyGuardianAngelTwo.
#OmoBabaE
#FatherDaughterLove.
June 4, 2022
June 4, 2022
Happy posthumous 81st birthday Daddy.
The pains have refused to go away and the tears keep coming, but the sweet memories of you continues to give me strength. I miss you so, so much and I love you still.
Continue to rest in peace till we meet again.
Akanmu, mo da'ro e o!❤
June 4, 2022
June 4, 2022
Happy Birthday to you Daddy.
My dearest Father, I miss you more than words can say, and especially so on your birthday. We for don analyse Naija politics tire.
Happy birthday up there, Daddy.
Continue to rest well Baba mi Oyelakin Akanmu Lawal.
You remain unforgettable.
#MyGuardianAngel2. #MyBabaLikeNoOther. #❤️❤️❤️.
January 24, 2022
January 24, 2022
Dear Father, remembering you is easy, I do it every day. Missing you is heartache, that never goes away. The last 12 months has been tough and emotionally challenging but thank God for His grace upon me. I have learnt that "God indeed has THE FINAL SAY" in the affairs of men.
Miss you so much my Biggest Cheerleader and Hero.

I am thankful for your life. A true example of a devoted father, teacher and friend.
I absolutely loved being your daughter. You are unforgettable in every way.
Rest on my #GuardianAngel2.
#ILoveAndMissYouSoMuch. #FatherLikeNoOther
#OneYearWithoutMyDearFather. #OneYearMemorial. #RestOnGreatFather. #❤️❤️❤️
June 22, 2021
June 22, 2021
Hmmmm.... Happy Father's Day to you in heaven Daddy. You were a good father. May your soul continue to rest in peace. Amen. ❤
June 4, 2021
June 4, 2021
Today is the 80th anniversary of your birth, Daddy. We miss you.
I hope that you are having a great time in heaven?
We marked the day with a visit to an orphanage. We had a get together with the children there and donated a token for their upkeep.
You memory is forever blessed.
Sleep on dear Father. ❤️
April 24, 2021
April 24, 2021
It's been three months without my dear Father and I miss him so much that it hurts.
Daddy was a man for all seasons who impacted so many lives positively. A great teacher of good values who has left behind a legacy that cannot be forgotten. I feel really blessed to call him my father.
Daddy, you will live forever in my heart.
#ILoveAndMissYouSoMuch. #♥️. #BabaBunmi. #AllGloryToGod. #MyGuardianAngel2.
April 13, 2021
April 13, 2021
You are missed everyday, Daddy.
Continue to rest in Jesus...
March 22, 2021
March 22, 2021
It is hard to come to the reality of your passing my dear Father. Everything changed when you left. Everything is a little less bright, a little less exciting, a little less happy and a little less normal.

I have been on a journey of the theoretical stages of grief; denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and maybe finally moving towards acceptance. It has been hard but amid it all I give thanks for the peace that surpasses all understanding.

Thankful because you lived a purposeful life. A balanced and simple life, family focused, full of love and beautiful radiant memories. You truly lived fully and nurtured us to do the same.

You were a quintessential Father. A gentleman per excellence. Very organised and well-polished. Growing up days were almost like being in a finishing school. I can never forget those grooming lessons, cutlery lessons, writing lessons, and the bible studies with the big white Bible all done in the gentlest manner. You loved traveling and adventures and invariably sowed the seeds in us. You were the one that flogged rarely and pacifiers with goodies thereafter. I learned to read exceedingly early because of all the books you had and the daily supply of four to five newspapers. The book reading and exchanges as well as newspaper discussions continued till the very end, oh my, I am going to miss that and all of you. You were ever so protective of us all. I remembered when I bought my first car, you took the car off me for about a week to fix and ensured that it was safe for your ‘Bunmi to drive at no cost to me, thanks again Dad. The latter memories with you were even more awesome. So much to still do together but God knows why He had to call you home now.

Daddy, thank you for being such a loving, wonderful, kind, and generous person. You loved fiercely. If I had to sum you up in one word, it would be GENEROUS. You were generous with your love, your time, your concerns, and most importantly, yourself. You gave gifts for the flimsiest of all excuse. The chance to improve someone else’s life, or even just their day or put a smile on their face I think was what drove you. I am comforted in all the beautiful memories we shared, priceless, thank you Daddy.

You were an embodiment of love and Christian virtues. Your prayer life and thirst for the true word of God challenged me. You never ceased to encourage us to remain steadfast in our walk with God. A man of great faith who despite my Mum’s passing on, continued the fasting and prayers he had commenced for another two days to complete it. Such was your commitment to the things of God. Daddy, I am missing all your prayers already.

I am missing you so much my biggest cheerleader. Your Adeola Alake misses you so much.
My mentor in almost all areas of life. My all-time Pastor. Fabulous human being. Correct Daddy. A father that stood out. My smart and fit Papa. A great family man. A great pillar of support to his immediate and extended families. A great and loyal friend. My Politico. My one in a million Father.

Thank you for the virtues, the values, and the principles you lived for that has set the path for us to follow.
Thank you for all the lessons, both taught and observed over time.
I absolutely loved being your daughter.
You are unforgettable in every way.

Daddy, I love you and miss you dearly.
May your kind and gentle soul rest in perfect peace till we meet to part no more.

#AdieuDearFather.
#RestWellBabaBunmi.
#MySecondGuardianAngel.
#OurLossIsHeavensGain.
#TheLastOfTheParentalsGoesHome.
Your daughter, Olubunmi.
March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021
Daddy, sigh!!! It is with heavy heart that I am writing this because I never imagine I will be doing this so soon; I never imagine doing this even 10 years to come but the Lord does things as it pleases him. You are not just a father but a mentor, a lover of God and a lover of men, you taught me the importance of family, you took me like yours. I have great joy each time you call or when I hear you pray for us, the first thing that came to my mind after your demise is who will be praying for us now, the sound of your “HELLO “on the phone will be greatly missed, you never missed reaching out to us first thing on each festive day.
I remember, on my 30th birthday even though you were reminded just that day you gave me a very lovely and beautiful greeting card which melts my heart, it is the best gift I received that day because I could feel the genuine love in every word in it. Should I talk about how I receive envelope from you each time, how well you loved my siblings and I, it is amazing, even when I was not married to OLUFISAYO yet, you always make me feel like part of the family, how you stood by us during our wedding planning and after. I am thankful for birthing and raising a king for me. I am as well grateful for all the love showered on us during our trying times, daddy will never visit us empty handed, daddy was a giver to a fault. You fill the void of my late father in my life which made your death a big shock to me, but in all things, we are grateful “NITORI WIPE OLUWA MU ENI RERE LO SAJU OJO IBI NI”.
When I got my present job, daddy was the happiest person on earth, he said now I am going to do thanksgiving on Sunday and redeem my pledge in church, but he passed away just a day to the proposed day, daddy lived a very impactful and fulfilling life. How I wish he lived to see Fisco’s children, how I wish my children will enjoy the warmth of their grandfather, I did not have any of such experience, but I always wish my children will, but GOD IS UNQUESTIONABLE. I miss you so much papa, continue to rest in the bosom of our lord Jesus Christ till we meet to part no more.

Your darling daughter in love Adedamola Lawal (aya Fisco)
March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021
Daddy, Daddy.
Your love to me was part of my marital happiness.
I miss your calls and the assurance you always gave me that everyone back home was fine.
Despite the pain that lingers in my heart, I have got to try and let go.

Thank you for the quality of love you gave to us.
You are not here to request for 'isu and ata’ again.
I hope you find the eternal peace you deserve.

Rest in peace till we meet again.
I love you Daddy.

Your daughter-in-love, Adenike.
March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021

We had the best grandpa who lived well, laughed often, and loved much.
Grandpa gave us the name ‘AYO’. He never forgets everyone’s birthday. Grandpa always looked for the best in others and gave the best he had. A philanthropist you were called.
Your life was an inspiration, and your memory will forever be a benediction.
Rest on Grandpa.
We love you.

Your grandsons, AyoOluwa & Ayokunle Lawal.

March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021
Grandpa! I miss you so much Sir. I thought this year I would be writing a tribute to you in honour of your 80th birthday and not this one that I am writing.
You were a strong and brave man. You were a strong Christian; you always talk to me about Jesus Christ and admonish me to always pray and read my Bible.
I can never forget all your encouraging and motivating words to me concerning my studies. In fact, you were one of my motivating factors to do well in my studies. I know you were always proud of me every end of term when I show you my report card. You were also always proud to take it with you to some schools you were consultant to. Oh God! All these have now come to an end. I miss you so much my loving, accommodating and generous grandpa. I will miss all the biscuits and drinks you used to bring for me from your AREPPSS meetings. I will miss so many things about you because you were an exceptionally good man.
This is hard for me to say because my heart is broken, but you taught me to have faith in God, so I will say it, Rest in peace grandpa till we meet again on the resurrection morning. Please, help me greet grandma and tell her I miss her so much.

- Your darling granddaughter, MorayoOluwa Anike Apoeso.

PS
(Oh! Who will be calling me “Anike” the way you do?)
March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021

“Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His saints.” Psalm 116:15; for you served God and Humanity generously and diligently without holding back. And the Bible say, “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18; we thank God for you lived a fulfilled life.

Daddy, I miss you every day and the great memories we shared. I am proud to be called your son because you were not just my father but a great father and mentor to many, a great family man who believed so much in the group called family, both nuclear and extended family, unifying and bringing everyone together to live in love and harmony. Dad, you taught me how powerful and strong family is. A great lover, dad loved love, he loved Christ and man, always ready to do the things of God, always keeping an open mind and arms. You brought us to Christ early with our morning family devotion, with sound and seasoned exposition of God’s word.

A selfless giver, you taught me how to give, care and accommodate people without expecting anything in return. A romantic father and a prolific writer, always giving mum and everyone greetings cards for all occasions. Just last year, you gave my wife a very lovely birthday card, she was so amazed and happy. You were caring to a fault. Daddy, you taught us to follow peace with all men, thank you dad. You even gave me a nickname “Fisco". A great achiever and a dedicated team player, who believed so much in hard work and discipline. A great guidance counsellor, always pushing us forward to do better. A very resourceful and courageous being. A magnificent historian (even to the intend that you have a Family Logbook for birthdays, anniversaries, and memorable events in the family), a happy reader (dad read a lot, newspapers, biographies, autobiographies) and a passionate speaker; also, daddy can talk for Africa, hahaha and he doesn’t joke with his stomach (smiles), he liked good food.

So many memories of you dad, in fact, so many things to write about you. My consolation is that you knew Christ and impacted so many lives, testimonies abound. 

Thank you for all you did for us and for being the best father, I will always celebrate and love you. Continue to rest in the bosom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, Amen.

Your son Olufisayo A.K.A Fisco
March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021
Daddy, I still find it hard to believe that you are gone.
Growing up and knowing you for over four decades is one of the best memories I have ever had. Right from the day I was able to differentiate between my right and left hand, you have always been this caring and loving father, you have always directed our paths in the Lord’s way. The memories of the family bell ringing every night, your lengthy Bible sermon that can last up to 1 hour, your prayer whenever it is your turn that can last for more than 30 minutes, such that at times, we miss our favorite TV programs. I can also remember the 18th birthday present you gave me, which was my first adult bed, and how you always encourage us to be the best in whatever we wish to do.

I also remember the different “conductor” clothes we usually sew from “Good Hope Tailor” at almost every of our birthday, how you used to take us to the barbing salon (at Ojoyin) before we started going to “Double Crown Salon” ourselves…memories.

Daddy, I know you are happy in heaven because you lived a fulfilled and exemplary life. You always want people to grow, you always want people to know God, and you were so down to earth, selfless, and knowledgeable in every sphere of life as there is no topic or subject matter that you can’t make meaningful contribution. Your love for God and dedication to His work was topnotch, as your daily morning devotion and Bible meditation you don’t skip, such that when I even entered your room and checked your table after your demise, your Bible, jotter and referenced prayers book were all opened with your glasses and pen right beside your Bible. You don’t really know how to sing but your voice will fill the whole house whenever you are bathing. You were a prayer master as you will pick everybody in the Lawal extended family one after the other to pray for. Also, everyone is always looking forward to your call and SMS every Christmas, New Year, Easter, and birthdays.

Daddy, I remembered our last conversation two days before your demise, you told me that you are ‘’okay now, and that no cause for alarm” not knowing that the phrase was that you have seen the gate widely opened for you with the angels waiting to welcome you.

Daddy and mummy, you are both greatly missed but you laid a solid foundation for us your children which we will continue to uphold for generations to come.
I miss you so much Baba Bunmi, continue to rest in the Lord your maker. Amen.

You son, Olufemi.

March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021
"The death of a loved parent is an incalculable lasting blow. Because no one ever loves you again like that."
   -Brenda Veland.

It is still like a bad dream I hope to wake up from...
Many Saturdays have passed since the one you left, that I have not made akara and ogi for your breakfast.
I entered your room these days and you are not there kneeling by your bed praying or sitting by your table reading or searching for a book or newspaper you wanted to give me to read something you have already marked down for me... All these not happening are sadly making the fact of your demise real. Oh no!
It is really devastating for me, Daddy, that you are gone. My heart is really, really heavy with pains and sadness and tears...
Who will ever want a father like you to go? A selfless, loving father who took so much pride in all our accomplishments; big, small, and even imagined! You would blow our trumpets to high heavens. Where can we ever find a genuine cheerleader like you? Abiamo tooto.
A father who lived an exemplary life and left us with such golden, invaluable name to be proud of. I am totally proud to be called your daughter, Daddy. I am!
You were a true and devoted God seeker. You brought us up in and showed us by example, the way of the lord. A prayer warrior you were, always praying and fasting. You were always seeking the things of the Lord. Your heart was completely sold out to Jesus. You will rather lose everything and gain heaven, such was your love for Christ since you became converted.
You were a good, passionately loving and fiercely faithful husband to mummy. It was from you we first heard of "Valentine's day” a long time ago while growing up when you observed the day by giving mummy a card. You were a shy romantic.
A great family man you were Daddy and not just to us of your nuclear family, but also to your extended family, that of mummy and even to people you have no blood ties with.
You were a great teacher who made his mark and impact in the teaching profession you diligently practised for good 35 years and some years more after retirement. You formed great relationships with your students and were ever caring and enthusiastic about them. You kept contact with some of your former students and some are now the big brothers and sisters we look up to in the medical, legal, and other professions. They paid back your labour of love so beautifully in your lifetime and they are still doing so after you passed on.
We need no one to tell us how good, generous, selfless, humble, and kind a person you were because we experienced all those first-hand. But then, many people have been coming to say good things about you and this makes us to be especially thankful to God for the life of the great man that fathered us. Everyone has one good thing or the other to say about you. I am grateful to God you lived a truly amazing and inspiring life.
Daddy, I can never forget back in 1997 when I had a bike accident and was on admission at the OAUTHC for four months. You came to the hospital to see me almost every day of my stay there. I can remember only two days that you did not come. You were completely there for me, caring for me and showing me love. I will never forget.
By your many acts of love and selflessness, you taught me how to love. I am grateful for that. How can I forget times you will just show up at my house and when you are leaving you will give Morayo your usual “white envelope" so casually. Many at times, the money was lifesaver for me and my child. I never cease to wonder how you always know when we need help. You were a true “Abiamo”, your caring fatherly instinct was so sharp.
I imbibed many values from you and even at your death, I am still learning from you. You were truly great, Daddy.
You inspired me to love to read. You were a voracious reader, who almost always go to the toilet with books or newspapers and can stay in there for hours reading. You were a prolific writer, an encyclopaedia of knowledge, who hardly forgets anything, birthday and wedding anniversaries, anything. You used to have dates at your fingertips. You were an orator; Daddy’s command of the English language is quite enviable.
You were a great leader and a man of the people who was very sociable and accommodating. You loved genuinely and stay loyal to people you called your friend. You always look out for your friends, you nurtured relationship so well.
You appreciate good food. You were a "foodie" who never grow fat. You always voice out your appreciation after eating a well-prepared meal you enjoyed. You also give gifts too in appreciation, no matter how small. I enjoyed being your chief cook after mummy's passing. It was worthwhile.
Daddy, you gave us a very good life not because you were rich, I mean you were just a "poor" teacher, but you gave the little you had selflessly to us, your God, extended family, friends, and even random people. You were generous to a fault, giving not only your money but also your time and yourself to others.
So many things to write about you, so many memories. I remember all our family trips back in those days, travelling across Nigeria to see your old friends and families and just knowing Nigeria while at it.
I remember all the snacks you always get for us from Leventis Stores or Kingsway or UTC stores every time you travel to Ibadan in the old Oyo State, for all your Association affairs, when you were the Chairman of Graduate Teacher's Association (GTA) and were active in All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools (ANCOPPS) and Nigeria Union of Teacher's (NUT) matters.
I remember the palm wine you used to buy almost every Saturday morning! The seller will come to the house every Saturday morning when coming from the farm. The palm wine was always fresh. You will buy in kegs and give us to drink and keep for your friends who never fails to show up almost every evening. You were sociable and accommodating and life was good. So many good memories to write about. I thank God for them all.
We had our father and daughter issues too but I never for once doubted your love for me and my siblings. You had our best interests at heart always and you loved us in your own special way. Thank you, Daddy.
You were not perfect, but you put more into the world than you took out. You were not driven by popularity, money, ambition, or power, you did good out of the goodness of your heart. Oh, how I wish you spent more years here on earth. You may not have lived or died a rich man, your true wealth is in the number of lives you influenced and shaped and are talking so glowingly about you today. That is true wealth, that was what mattered to you, building people up.
I really cannot find the words to describe how much I miss you. I will just say that you and mum should continue to sleep peacefully till we meet again at Jesus feet. Amen.
I will always love you, Daddy.

Your darling daughter, Olubukola Agbeke.

March 20, 2021
March 20, 2021
It is hard to come to the reality of your passing my
dear Father. Everything changed when you left.
Everything is a little less bright, a little less exciting, a
little less happy and a little less normal. I have been on a
journey of the theoretical stages of grief; denial, anger,
bargaining, depression, and maybe finally moving
towards acceptance. It has been hard but amid it all I give
thanks for the peace that surpasses all understanding.
Thankful because you lived a purposeful life. A balanced
and simple life, family focused, full of love and beautiful
radiant memories. You truly lived fully and nurtured us to
do the same.
You were a quintessential Father. A gentleman per
excellence. Very organised and well-polished. Growing
up days were almost like being in a finishing school. I can
never forget those grooming lessons, cutlery lessons,
writing lessons, and the bible studies with the big white
Bible all done in the gentlest manner. You loved travelling
and adventures and invariably sowed the seeds in us. You
were the one that flogged rarely and pacifiers with
goodies thereafter. I learned to read exceedingly early
because of all the books you had and the daily supply of
four to five newspapers.
The book reading and exchanges as well as newspaper
discussions continued till the very end, oh my, I am going
to miss that and all of you. You were ever so protective of
us all. I remembered when I bought my first car, you took
the car off me for about a week to fix and ensured that it
was safe for your ‘Bunmi to drive at no cost to me, thanks
again Dad. The latter memories with you were even more
awesome. So much to still do together but God knows
why He had to call you home now.
Daddy, thank you for being such a loving, wonderful,
kind, and generous person. You loved fiercely. If I had to
sum you up in one word, it would be GENEROUS. You
were generous with your love, your time, your concerns,
and most importantly, yourself. You gave gifts for the
flimsiest of all excuse. The chance to improve someone
else’s life, or even just their day or put a smile on their face
I think was what drove you. I am comforted in all the
beautiful memories we shared, priceless, thank you
Daddy. You were an embodiment of love and Christian
virtues. Your prayer life and thirst for the true word of
God challenged me. You never ceased to encourage us to
remain steadfast in our walk with God. A man of great
faith who despite my Mum’s passing on, continued the
fasting and prayers he had commenced for another two
days to complete it. Such was your commitment to the
things of God. Daddy, I am missing all your prayers
already.
I am missing you so much my biggest cheerleader. Your
Adeola Alake misses you so much.
My mentor in almost all areas of life. My all-time Pastor.
Fabulous human being. Correct Daddy. A father that
stood out. My smart and fit Papa. A great family man. A
great pillar of support to his immediate and extended
families. A great and loyal friend. My Politico. My one in a
million Father.
Thank you for the virtues, the values, and the principles
you lived for that has set the path for us to follow.
Thank you for all the lessons, both taught and observed
over time.
I absolutely loved being your daughter.
You are unforgettable in every way.
Daddy, I love you and miss you dearly.
May your kind and gentle soul rest in perfect peace till we
meet to part no more.
#AdieuDearFather.
#RestWellBabaBunmi.
#MySecondGuardianAngel.
#OurLossIsHeavensGain.
#TheLastOfTheParentalsGoesHome.

YOUR DAUGHTER, OLUBUNMI.
March 19, 2021
March 19, 2021
I don't think a day has ever passed without me thinking about you since you left us exactly three years ago. I wish I could turn back the hands of time, not to change anything but to have you around as the good old times. Nothing to change, you lived an impactful life, and it is one of the reasons you're unforgettable. I love importantly that you exemplify Christ and you carried your family along. I am forever grateful to God and to you for that aspect of my life. You were very diligent, highly organised, kind-hearted, a lover of people, and so on. I love and miss you so much, Daddy. The pain of your passing is still so fresh. Will it ever go away? Keep resting, Akanmu, till we meet again.

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Recent Tributes
January 23
January 23
An author says, "Nothing can ever take away the love a heart holds dear. Fond memories linger every day, and remembrance keep them near."

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. I hold those memories so dear.

Keep resting dear Father till we meet to part no more.
#BabaBunmi.
#ThirdYearRemembranceOfMyDad.
#MyGuardianAngelTwo.
#OmoBabaE
#FatherDaughterLove.
June 4, 2022
June 4, 2022
Happy posthumous 81st birthday Daddy.
The pains have refused to go away and the tears keep coming, but the sweet memories of you continues to give me strength. I miss you so, so much and I love you still.
Continue to rest in peace till we meet again.
Akanmu, mo da'ro e o!❤
June 4, 2022
June 4, 2022
Happy Birthday to you Daddy.
My dearest Father, I miss you more than words can say, and especially so on your birthday. We for don analyse Naija politics tire.
Happy birthday up there, Daddy.
Continue to rest well Baba mi Oyelakin Akanmu Lawal.
You remain unforgettable.
#MyGuardianAngel2. #MyBabaLikeNoOther. #❤️❤️❤️.
His Life
March 20, 2021
                        A LIFE WELL LIVED

An abridged story of the great life of our dear Daddy, Oyelakin Lawal.



 HIS BIRTH AND EARLY LIFE

Our dear Daddy was born on Wednesday, 4th June 1941 to the family of Pa. Lawani Ajagbe Ojo and Mama Oyinlola Omotobaje Lawani (Nee Tolani) of “Ile Akinwumi”, Isale Osun, Osogbo. His parents were of the Islamic faith and so, he was named Muritala Akanmu Lawani at birth. He later changed his name to Oyelakin Lawal precisely in September,1970 but till he passed, some of his good old friends especially Pa. Ayodele Arowolo, still dearingly calls him, ‘‘M.A’’.  M.A being initials of Muritala Akanmu.

Daddy was born in Auchi, Etsako West Local Governmemt in the present-day Edo State and that was where he spent his early years growing up amongst family and large community of Yoruba/Osogbo people who had migrated to that part of the country like his parents for greener pastures.

Daddy was the first born of his mother and the second of his father. He enjoyed a relatively good childhood as his father was both a successful farmer and businessman who was hardworking, generous, accommodating and a devout Muslim who placed priority on the wellbeing of his children, wives, extended family, and people around him.



EDUCATION

Daddy started school in January 1948 at the prestigious Government School, Auchi, Uromi. He was academically sound that he was always between the 1st and 6th positions. As a matter of facts, Daddy was the monitor/class Captain in his Primary 4. Apart from academics, Daddy was quite active in extracurricular activities, he belonged to the Tiger Boys’ Club, a football club and was also in the Drama Club and acted in the stage presentation of ‘Robin Hood’. Daddy acquired Quranic education alongside formal education.

After his Primary education in 1955, his attempt to proceed to a Grammar school failed due to lack of funds and so, inadvertently, his teaching career started. He got his first teaching appointment at the age of 14 years, 9 months in 1956 at the St James’ Anglican Central School, Jattu-Uzaure. One of the conditions of his appointment was that he must become a Christian and be baptized in the Anglican Church. He agreed to the condition and so was baptized on 4th March 1956 by Reverend D.R. Oyebode who later became the Bishop of Ibadan Diocese of the Anglican Church.

Daddy taught at St James Anglican Central School as a pupil teacher from 1st March 1956 to 1958 and he was able to put money aside to proceed with the pursuit of his desire to become a teacher. He proceeded to the Provincial Teachers’ College, Agbede, in January 1959 where he obtained his Grade 1 Teachers Training Certificate in December 1960.

Daddy attended The Apostolic Teachers’ Training College, Oke – Oye, Ilesa, where he and his bosom friend, Elder ‘Soji Adegoke met, from January 1964 to December 1965. He obtained Teachers’ Grade 11 Certificate from there in 1966. He went on to the premier University, University of Ibadan in September 1968 having passed the “London GCE”, that is, the University of London General Certificate of Education, in 1968.

Daddy was admitted to study History at the University of Ibadan and accepted even though he could not foresee any ready means of paying for his education at that level because he had lost father, their bread winner. As God would have it, Government of the then Western States offered scholarship to indigent students and he was lucky to obtain it. He completed his studies at the University of Ibadan in June 1971 and was awarded a Bachelor of Education in History.

At the University of Ibadan, he met some of his life long, bosom friends like, Biyi Sangosanya, Duro Orishanaye, Prince Oyebamiji Oyetunde amongst others.



MARRIAGE

Daddy met his “darling Ladun”, Mercy Omoladun Abike Lawal (Nee Folorunso) precisely on 18th July 1969 in Osogbo. God orchestrated their meeting through one of his friend and brother, Prince Jire Oyedeji who happened to be mummy’s cousin. They got married on 27th April 1974 at the All-Saints’ Cathedral, Balogun, Osogbo and even death was not able to break the bond between them as deduced from his response to a joke to take another woman after mummy’s passing in August 2018. He said, “God forbid, obinrin kan ti Olorun ko mo mi lo ti lo yen.”

Daddy was a loving husband and fiercely loyal to his wife and marital vow. He loved his wife wholeheartedly. Their marriage was not a perfect one as they had their own challenges, but it was one built on love, trust, fidelity, kindness, communication, sincerity, oneness of mind, and great friendship et al.

It must be noted that during their courtship, they exchanged one hundred and eighty-six (186) ‘love letters’ and all the letters are safely kept by Daddy till today. Such was the love and nature of Daddy to preserve history.

To the glory of God, their marriage was fruitful in all ways, God blessed them with beautiful children.

Dad was a great Dad and husband, he lived up to his expectations of himself which he wrote in one of his jotters; “The greatest gift I wish to give to my family is simply being Oyelakin Lawal, a good husband, a father, grandfather and great-grandfather. To raise my family in the love of the Lord."  


HIS BIRTH AND EARLY LIFE

Our dear Daddy was born on Wednesday, 4th June 1941 to the family of Pa. Lawani Ajagbe Ojo and Mama Oyinlola Omotobaje Lawani (Nee Tolani) of “Ile Akinwumi”, Isale Osun, Osogbo. His parents were of the Islamic faith and so, he was named Muritala Akanmu Lawani at birth. He later changed his name to Oyelakin Lawal precisely in September,1970 but till he passed, some of his good old friends especially Pa. Ayodele Arowolo, still dearingly calls him, ‘‘M.A’’.  M.A being initials of Muritala Akanmu.

Daddy was born in Auchi, Etsako West Local Governmemt in the present-day Edo State and that was where he spent his early years growing up amongst family and large community of Yoruba/Osogbo people who had migrated to that part of the country like his parents for greener pastures.

Daddy was the first born of his mother and the second of his father. He enjoyed a relatively good childhood as his father was both a successful farmer and businessman who was hardworking, generous, accommodating and a devout Muslim who placed priority on the wellbeing of his children, wives, extended family, and people around him.



EDUCATION

Daddy started school in January 1948 at the prestigious Government School, Auchi, Uromi. He was academically sound that he was always between the 1st and 6th positions. As a matter of facts, Daddy was the monitor/class Captain in his Primary 4. Apart from academics, Daddy was quite active in extracurricular activities, he belonged to the Tiger Boys’ Club, a football club and was also in the Drama Club and acted in the stage presentation of ‘Robin Hood’. Daddy acquired Quranic education alongside formal education.

After his Primary education in 1955, his attempt to proceed to a Grammar school failed due to lack of funds and so, inadvertently, his teaching career started. He got his first teaching appointment at the age of 14 years, 9 months in 1956 at the St James’ Anglican Central School, Jattu-Uzaure. One of the conditions of his appointment was that he must become a Christian and be baptized in the Anglican Church. He agreed to the condition and so was baptized on 4th March 1956 by Reverend D.R. Oyebode who later became the Bishop of Ibadan Diocese of the Anglican Church.

Daddy taught at St James Anglican Central School as a pupil teacher from 1st March 1956 to 1958 and he was able to put money aside to proceed with the pursuit of his desire to become a teacher. He proceeded to the Provincial Teachers’ College, Agbede, in January 1959 where he obtained his Grade 1 Teachers Training Certificate in December 1960.

Daddy attended The Apostolic Teachers’ Training College, Oke – Oye, Ilesa, where he and his bosom friend, Elder ‘Soji Adegoke met, from January 1964 to December 1965. He obtained Teachers’ Grade 11 Certificate from there in 1966. He went on to the premier University, University of Ibadan in September 1968 having passed the “London GCE”, that is, the University of London General Certificate of Education, in 1968.

Daddy was admitted to study History at the University of Ibadan and accepted even though he could not foresee any ready means of paying for his education at that level because he had lost father, their bread winner. As God would have it, Government of the then Western States offered scholarship to indigent students and he was lucky to obtain it. He completed his studies at the University of Ibadan in June 1971 and was awarded a Bachelor of Education in History.

At the University of Ibadan, he met some of his life long, bosom friends like, Biyi Sangosanya, Duro Orishanaye, Prince Oyebamiji Oyetunde amongst others.



MARRIAGE

Daddy met his “darling Ladun”, Mercy Omoladun Abike Lawal (Nee Folorunso) precisely on 18th July 1969 in Osogbo. God orchestrated their meeting through one of his friend and brother, Prince Jire Oyedeji who happened to be mummy’s cousin. They got married on 27th April 1974 at the All-Saints’ Cathedral, Balogun, Osogbo and even death was not able to break the bond between them as deduced from his response to a joke to take another woman after mummy’s passing in August 2018. He said, “God forbid, obinrin kan ti Olorun ko mo mi lo ti lo yen.”

Daddy was a loving husband and fiercely loyal to his wife and marital vow. He loved his wife wholeheartedly. Their marriage was not a perfect one as they had their own challenges, but it was one built on love, trust, fidelity, kindness, communication, sincerity, oneness of mind, and great friendship et al.

It must be noted that during their courtship, they exchanged one hundred and eighty-six (186) ‘love letters’ and all the letters are safely kept by Daddy till today. Such was the love and nature of Daddy to preserve history.

To the glory of God, their marriage was fruitful in all ways, God blessed them with beautiful children.

Dad was a great Dad and husband, he lived up to his expectations of himself which he wrote in one of his jotters; “The greatest gift I wish to give to my family is simply being Oyelakin Lawal, a good husband, a father, grandfather and great-grandfather. To raise my family in the love of the Lord.”

MARRIAGE

Daddy met his “darling Ladun”, Mercy Omoladun Abike Lawal (Nee Folorunso) precisely on 18th July 1969 in Osogbo. God orchestrated their meeting through one of his friend and brother, Prince Jire Oyedeji who happened to be mummy’s cousin. They got married on 27th April 1974 at the All-Saints’ Cathedral, Balogun, Osogbo and even death was not able to break the bond between them as deduced from his response to a joke to take another woman after mummy’s passing in August 2018. He said, “God forbid, obinrin kan ti Olorun ko mo mi lo ti lo yen.”

Daddy was a loving husband and fiercely loyal to his wife and marital vow. He loved his wife wholeheartedly. Their marriage was not a perfect one as they had their own challenges, but it was one built on love, trust, fidelity, kindness, communication, sincerity, oneness of mind, and great friendship et al.

It must be noted that during their courtship, they exchanged one hundred and eighty-six (186) ‘love letters’ and all the letters are safely kept by Daddy till today. Such was the love and nature of Daddy to preserve history.

To the glory of God, their marriage was fruitful in all ways, God blessed them with beautiful children.

Dad was a great Dad and husband, he lived up to his expectations of himself which he wrote in one of his jotters; “The greatest gift I wish to give to my family is simply being Oyelakin Lawal, a good husband, a father, grandfather and great-grandfather. To raise my family in the love of the Lord.”



WORK LIFE

In his autobiography manuscript he wrote, “I accepted teaching as something good and natural, something God meant for me to do.” And that explains his work life as a teacher, it was his calling, and he was passionate about it. Although lack of fund pushed him into the teaching profession at a tender age, necessity must have worked together with passion to make the teaching profession his forte. Daddy was a born teacher, God blessed him with an intelligent mind and sharp memory and the propensity to impart knowledge. He was an encyclopedia of knowledge. Daddy hardly forgets dates and past occurrences. He keeps records of everything important to him, he was the family library, archive, and museum manager.

His first work experience was as a pupil teacher at St James Anglican Central School, Jattu-Uzaure, from 1st March 1956 to 1958. Thereafter, he worked at the following schools before proceeding to the University of Ibadan; Irrua Primary School, Otuo, from 1st January 1960 to 31st December 1961; Anamah Primary School, Igue-Oke, from 1st January 1962 to 31st December 1962; Omogbai Primary School, Jattu, from 1st January 1963 to 31st December 1963; The Apostolic Primary School, Iwaro – Osu, from 1st January 1966 to 30th September 1968. It was at this school as a teacher and editor of the school magazine amongst other responsibilities, that he tutored Honourable Justice Adedotun Onibokun of the Osun State High Court (as she is now) who was a regular contributor to the school magazine. She is one of Daddy’s former students he was totally proud of. Daddy and his bosom friend, Elder Soji Adegoke met and started their friendship also at this school.

After achieving his B.Ed. in History from the University of Ibadan in June 1971, the first place Daddy worked as a graduate teacher was Annunciation Grammar School, Ikere-Ekiti from July 1971 till August 1976. In five years, that he was there, he held various post of responsibility, from being the Senior Boarding/Housemaster to Head of Department of Arts and Social Sciences to Master -in -charge of the Historical Society and so on. He made his mark at the great school as usual and he and some of his former students like, Professor Olusola Fasubaa and Hon. Niyi Afuye were still so much in contact.

He was transferred from Annunciation Grammar School in September 1976 to Oluorogbo High School, Ile-Ife. His passion for the teaching profession, diligence and industriousness stood him out again rightly endeared him to students and staff alike. He and some of his former students from Oluorogbo High School like Oluwatoyin Olasoji maintained cordial relationship till his passing. Daddy was provisionally assigned as a Vice-Principal to Community High School, Ara Joshua which name was later changed to Urban Day School, Ile-Ife on 1st September 1978. He served satisfactorily. On 1st September 1980, he was appointed the Principal of Community Secondary School, Iyanfoworogi.

As usual, Daddy brought his industriousness and vibrancy to play in the school that in no time, the name of the village “Iyanfoworogi” was brought into prominence. The school became popular despite its location, the students were more serious in their academic and generally their WAEC results improved.

At a point in January 1985, Daddy was both Principal of Community High School, Ogbagba and Community High School, Iyanfoworogi till 12th December 1986 when he was transferred to Olubuse Memorial High School, Ile-Ife as a Principal. He got transferred from Olubuse Grammar School to Laro Grammar School, Osogbo as a Principal on 3rd January 1990 and it was from Laro Grammar School that he was transferred to Osogbo Grammar School on 2nd October 1992 and that was where he meritoriously retired from active service in December 1995.

As the saying goes, “Being challenged in life is inevitable, being defeated is optional”. It must be noted that Daddy faced some challenges while at Olubuse Memorial High School. The beautiful thing was that, as he had to leave Ife because of the unbearable heat from the challenges for his hometown, Osogbo, he had the privilege of ending his thirty-five years teaching career at the great Osogbo Grammar School on 31st December 1995.

Daddy’s tenure as Principal of Osogbo Grammar School was well captured in a book written by J.A. Akinlade for the National Executive Committee of Old Students Association of Osogbo

 Grammar School in July 2009 titled, HISTROY OF OSOGBO GRAMMAR SCHOOL,

 OSOGBO. At page 25, he wrote. 

   “Not dauted by these accidents and the inherited problems of inadequacy of

Structures and staff, ELDER LAWAL began with motivating staff and students as a management technique to move the school forward, He continued to encourage and sponsor staff attendance at relevant conferences seminars and workshops. He boasted their ego by adopting strategy of delegation of    duties through committees. He revived publication of Osogbo Grammar School Newsletters and revival the Staff Club. He initiated Award for ‘Teacher of The Year’. All these stimulated the staff to put in their best. He got the SS11 BOY to wear bowties and the SS111 girls to wear skirt and blouse, it was ego boosting and facilitated discipline among the students… The zeal and management competence of ELDER LAWAL as Principal got the school to achieve much, winning laurels in inter-secondary school Essay and Quiz competition, as well as in sports. The school once again became a beehive of educational and social activities and a desire of many parents, ELDER AKIN LAWAL retired in 1995 leaving a student enrollment of 2,318 (1394 boys, 924 girls) and 107 teachers’’.



Daddy being the energetic, vibrant person that he was, was retired at fifty-five but not tired. Driven by the love and passion he had for the teaching profession and the unrelenting desire to impart knowledge in the younger ones, he sought appointment at the Henry-Alex Duduyemi Memorial College, a private citadel of learning. As usual, while there, from July 1997 to November 2003 before his appointment was terminated, he put in his best. What must however be noted is that the management of the great school is still indebted to him in claims and entitlements going by what is in the manuscript of his autobiography. Daddy maintained warm relationship till he passed on with many of his former students and even staff from the great school.

 Daddy and a bosom friend of his, Mr. A. S Adeyanju started an educational center named, ADELAK Continuing Education Centre, Osogbo. The creation of the center was informed by their unrelenting passion to impart knowledge on the younger ones and assist them in charting a viable course in their academic pursuit.

Daddy also started, post retirement, Glorious Tomorrow Concept, an educational and management consultant outfit. Through the outfit he was a promoter and consultant to some private schools amongst which were, The Great Hephizibar Model Schools, Owode, Ede; Childline Schools, Owode, Ede; Yoruba Class for Non-Speakers and some others.







CHRISTIAN LIFE

Daddy was born of Muslim parents and named Muritala Akanmu at birth. It is interesting to note that he became a convert in 1956 for economic reasons and so he was not a “serious” Christian. That was the state of his Christianity until the Lord revealed His power to him personally in April 1965 while he was at The Apostolic Teachers’ Training college, Ilesa. Before the “great revelation”, Daddy always thought those who come out to give testimonies in church, were “arranged” by the church to do so, to win converts to the fold.

Daddy experienced the power of Christ personally and his opinion and conviction changed forever. He had a swollen spot on his neck which suddenly grew big and caused him pain, he was advised that the swelling would have to be surgically removed. He approached the principal to ask for permission to travel down to Osogbo General Hospital for medical attention. After telling the Principal the state of his health, he asked him; “Do you know that the greatest power available to the individual in solving his personal problems is prayer?” Daddy answered in the negative but the principal undeterred, prayed prayer of healing with him and promised to help him make prayer request for healing at the Apostolic church. Daddy’s roommates also prayed for his divine healing. To cut a long story short, he woke up few days after the prayers to see that the swollen spot had disappeared. That was how he became convinced of the power that is in the mighty name of Jesus and his journey with God began.

Daddy remained a steadfast soldier of Christ ever since that encounter. He went to the University of Ibadan after leaving the Apostolic Teachers’ Training College and while there, he joined the Ibadan Varsity Christian Union, being a member of the union further helped his Christian growth.

According to him, at various times in his life, his relationship with some people like his bosom friend, late Overseer Soji Kilanko, Pastor Sola Akande, Pastor S. A. Adeoye, late Pastor/Prophet P. Ajani, and some others, greatly influenced his Christian life.

Daddy loved the Lord with all his heart and he also carried his family along. There was a family altar which Daddy ensured its fire never went dim even after all the children had left home and mummy had gone to be with the Lord. Such was his steadfastness in the things of the Lord. Daddy was not just a member but by God’s grace an ordained worker of The Apostolic Church of Nigeria. He lived a modest life, he was never materialistic nor overly ambitious, his goal remained to know God. He lived by the Biblical principle that it pays a man nothing if he gains the whole world but lost his soul in hell. Daddy was not a “perfect Christian”, but he was God fearing, had strong faith in God and constantly strived to be Christlike.



GENERALLY

Daddy was quite sociable, festive, and always a good company. He loved to have people around him and he loved genuinely. He mixed easily and freely with people of all classes and age. He was a great talker and listener. To Daddy, familiarity does not bring contempt, it brings closeness and conviviality. He was quite a jolly good fellow.

To his extended family, Daddy was a rallying point. He was a beacon who stood for oneness and unity of the family by and large. He lost his father quite early in life and being the first son of his mother, he was smart enough to support his mother by being there as much as possible, financially, and morally for her and his siblings. He was accommodating and caring not even only to his mother’s children but even his half siblings and extended family generally. There was genuine love among him and his four brothers and one sister and they played significant roles in one another’s lives.

Daddy made so many friends during his lifetime and he remained loyal to them. He had friends that dates to over fifty years and they were still so much into each other till he passed on. They became more like brothers and sisters and at different times during his lifetime, they played significant roles in one another’s lives.

The names of all of Daddy’s friends and acquaintances cannot be mentioned here, as this is an abridged story of his life, but one or two must be mentioned here together with others already mentioned in the story. Daddy cannot write his autobiography without mentioning Alhaji Wale Lasisi, his brother, friend, and confidant. Alhaji ‘Bisi Salawu’s name is another name that must come up and many others.

Daddy was an outstanding figure of vision and initiative; he conceived the idea of an Association for retired principals of secondary school in 2005. He shared the idea with some other eminent retired principals who shared his vision and together they brought the idea to life as AREPPSS; Association of Retired Principal of Public Secondary Schools of Nigeria, Osun State chapter, the first of its kind in Nigeria.                                                                                

Not driven by ambition for power, Daddy served as the first General Secretary of the Association for over ten years before he was recently elected the president when members felt he should lead the Association he founded.

Before AREPSS, while he was in active service, he had always been actively involved with any union that seeks to protect and further the cause of Teachers and humanity generally. He was actively involved with ANCOPPSS generally and at the Oranmiyan Zonal level, he played a pivotal role organizing and managing the Oranmiyan ANCOPSS Remedial Classes.

Daddy was at some point in time the state (old Oyo State) Chairman of Graduate Teachers’ Association (GTA). Daddy was also involved with National Union of Teachers’ (NUT)

Beyond the classroom, he was the National Social Secretary Osun Divisional Union of Students, ODUS, as far back as in the 1960s. While at the University of Ibadan, he was the National President of the over 1,000-member strong Osun Divisional Union of Students, ODUS. He was also a member of the Positive Thinkers and Nation Builders at the University of Ibadan.

Daddy was an active member of Osogbo Progressive Union. He was also actively involved with Osogbo Youth Movement which metamorphosed into The Osogbo Club. He was a member of June Circle Club, The ‘D’ Club Ile-Ife, and others.

Daddy at various times was in one Club, Committee, Group or Association bothering on Church, or his hometown or community he lived in, professional, social, or political. He was until his passing on to glory, the Chairman of Ayedun Estate 1 Landlords & Tenants Association.

Daddy loved recreational sports. He loved to play Table Tennis, so much that back then at Ile-Ife, people converged at our house to play Table Tennis. Daddy also loved football, he loved to play and loved to watch it. He was an Arsenal FC fan. He followed teams he supports closely. Daddy’s love for football dates way back as he co-formed a football club, Osu Football Club, way back in the 60s with his friend, Elder ‘Soji Adegoke.

Daddy was quite energetic and active. He does take strolls around the neighborhood to keep fit.     

One other thing Daddy loved so well, was music. He loved to listen to different genres of music. Although he would constantly complain God did not give him “music voice”, he would always sing in the bathroom while bathing.

Daddy also appreciate well cooked home food. Some of his favourite foods are Akara/Moinmoin and Ogi, Yam and ‘ata dindin’, Beans (ewa riro) with dodo and Amala and ewedu. He loves to snack a lot too. He was a foodie who never grow fat.

Daddy was an avid reader and prolific writer. He loves to read and loves to write so well. He reads newspapers from cover to cover. His knack for marking salient points in books and newspapers is well known by all. He has jotters where he writes down his thoughts and especially his understanding of the Bible during his quiet time/personal morning devotion. It must be noted that he has and read different versions of The Holy Bible.

Daddy was very political, but he refused to actively participate in politics. He can discuss politics from dawn till dusk, he kept very much abreast with the political world, but he will always thank God for not giving him the grace to be actively involved in. He believed he would not have lasted or be successful as a politician as he would always want to say things as it is. Anyway, Daddy totally enjoyed discussing politics.



CONCLUSION

This concise story of Daddy’s life would be best concluded by quoting what he wrote of himself in the manuscript of his autobiography. He said,

“I was a smart man, but not smart in the way the world thinks of. When I graduated from the University of Ibadan, I knew what was important in life, what mattered was not making more money, acquiring more possessions, and becoming more important. What mattered most were my family and my faith. What mattered was doing the will of God.”

Our dear Daddy, Oyelakin Lawal was a great man who lived well to the glory of God. We are proud of him and the good name he bestowed on us. May God Almighty grant his gentle soul eternal rest till we meet again. Amen.





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