As a gesture of recognition and political solidarity, the Irawo Indigenous Baptist Pastors and their wives on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to Hon. Samuel Ademola Adejumobi, the former Majority Leader of the Oyo State House of Assembly and the current Special Adviser to the Governor of Oyo State on Legislative Matters.
The visit took place today, Sept. 17, at ‘Agbarapo’s private residence in Irawo, Oke-Ogun area of the state.
The visit, which was described as both spiritual and political in significance, brought together prominent Baptist leaders from across Nigeria who acknowledged Hon. Adejumobi’s contributions to governance, community development, and his support for the church.
Among the clerics in attendance were:
Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Femi Abiola – Calvary Baptist Church, Osogbo, Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Joseph Dada – First Baptist Church, Kisi, Rev. Dr. & Mrs. Femi Ajibola – New Heritage Baptist Church, Lagos, Rev. & Mrs. S.A. Dada – Gethsemane Baptist Church, Oyo, Pastor Gabriel Ojediran – Bishara Baptist Church, Ribah, Kebbi State, Pastor & Mrs. Peter Afolabi – Otun Baptist Church, Saki, and Rev. Israel O. Ojeleyi – Host Pastor, First Baptist Church, Irawo.
The gathering, it was gathered was not only a moment of fellowship but also an opportunity to commend Hon. Adejumobi’s steadfastness in public service and his efforts in strengthening the bond between faith and political leadership.
Speaking during the visit, Rev. Dr. Joseph Dada of First Baptist Church, Kisi, praised the former Majority Leader for being “a bridge between the pulpit and governance.”
He noted that Agbarapo’s humility and accessibility have endeared him to both his constituents and the wider Christian community in geopolitical zone in particular.
Other speakers in their separate remarks, commended Governor Seyi Makinde for what they described as a special skill in assembling some of the best hands in the state regardless of political affiliations to help him achieve the vision of his administration.
They particularly noted that peaceful coexistence among all religious faith in the state under the Makinde led government deserves more commendations noting that Oyo has become a beacon of peace and tranquility among all the 36 states of the federation.
They equally vowed to continue to support the present administration through special prayers and teachings that encourage citizens to embrace and participate actively in democratic governance.
In his response, Hon. Adejumobi expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing the visit as a profound encouragement.
He pledged to continue serving the people of Oyo State with integrity in whatever capacity he finds himself, while also supporting faith-based initiatives that promote peace, unity, and development.
Agbarapo equally expressed confidence that the reign of the new Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, will witness unprecedented development that’ll translate into an socio-economic growth of Ibadan land.
He stated that Oba Ladoja, being the first Olubadan in history to have served as a former Senator of the Federal Republic, former governor of Oyo state as well as an accomplished business mogul in the corporate world, will bring his vast experience in both public and private world, as well as his wealth of wisdom to bear in the development of the ancient city.
He however, dedicated his recognition to Governor Makinde for finding him worthy to serve in his government in both dispensations (2019 and 2023). He vowed to continue to use the opportunity he has in government to impact more lives positively across political and religious divides.
“This honour is dear to me, It reminds me that leadership is not just about politics, but also about humanity, spirituality, and service. I am grateful to our revered fathers and mothers in faith for their prayers and support.
“I always tell people that governor Seyi Makinde is a prophet, not all prophets operate from the pulpit, my governor is a God’s sent man with a vision, purpose and mission, and I feel very proud and humble to be part of this journey so far.
“I must dedicate this recognition to His Excellency, because I would not have known my capabilities and how far I could go if the governor did not give me the opportunity to serve. He didn’t just appoint me to serve, he gave me the enablement and necessary supports required to succeed in my office,” he said.
The clerics however, offered special prayers for Hon. Adejumobi, Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration, and the continuous progress of Oyo State under the present government.