On the 13th and 14th of February 2026, the historic town of Osi-Ekiti became the epicenter of a profound celebration of life. The community, joined by the upper crust of Nigeria’s political and religious circles, gathered in a grand spectacle of reverence to honour Chief Daniel Adedayo Ogboja, the esteemed Baba Ijo of Methodist Church Nigeria, Osi-Ekiti. Passing at the venerable age of 95, Chief Ogboja’s transition was marked not by mourning, but as a triumphant “Homecoming” for a man whose life was a masterclass in faith, scholarship, and unwavering community service.
Chief Daniel Ogboja, the Baba Ijo of Methodist Church of Nigeria
The strength of Chief Ogboja’s character was perhaps most visible in the children he raised—a testament to his “Ogboja Standard” of discipline. Present to bid their patriarch a glorious farewell were:
Chief (Mrs.) Abimbola Odegbami at the funeral
A Procession of Honour
The rites of passage commenced on Friday as the body of Chief Dayo Ogboja was brought from Bell Private Morgue in a limousine. In a striking display of tradition and elegance, he was later transferred to a beautiful white horse carriage for a majestic funeral procession that wound through the heart of Osi-Ekiti, followed by a dignified lying-in-state at his residence.
The remains of Chief Dayo Ogboja leaving BELLS funeral morque in a Limousine.
Following the lying-in-state, a Christian Wake and Service of Songs for the legendary Chief Daniel Adedayo Ogboja (popularly known as Daddy Ogboja) was held at his residence in Osi-Ekiti in continuation of the two-day celebration of the life and legacy of the revered patriarch, who passed away at the age of 95 on 26 September 2025.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the air filled with melodic tributes during a poignant Service of Songs and Christian Wake. Former students and colleagues took turns describing the legendary school principal as a “guiding light” whose pedagogical influence shaped the destinies of countless leaders across the nation.
Yejide Odegnami, Grand daughter at the wake
After Daddy Ogboja’s service of songs, the evening transitioned into a lively party with music by the Topsy Glamour band.
Wake keep party
An Assembly of Titans: The State and Clerical Tribute
The pinnacle of the ceremonies took place on Saturday at the Methodist Church Nigeria, Osi-Ekiti. The atmosphere was electric with the presence of an unprecedented gathering of dignitaries, diplomats, and high-ranking clergy who came to pay their final respects to the man often referred to as the “Architect of Characters.”
- HE. Biodun Oyebanji, Governor of Ekiti State, who personally attended to honour the man he proudly identifies as his former principal and mentor.
- HE. Segun Oni, Former Governor of Ekiti State.
- Chief Tunde Adeniran, Former two-time Minister and Nigerian Ambassador to the United States.
- Her Excellency, Mrs. Kemi Mimiko, wife of the former Governor of Ondo State.
- Mr. Bimbo Daramola, Member, House of Representatives.
- Mr. Segun Ilori, Former Chief of Staff, Ekiti State.
- Mr. Sunday Adegoke, Auditor-General, Ondo State.
- Mrs. Yejide Ojo, wife of Alaaye of Aaye-Ekiti
- Olori Adegboyega Alabi, wife of Olosi of Osi Ekiti
HE Biodun Oyebanji with the Widow of the deceased.
In a lasting tribute to their father’s commitment to education and faith, the children of the late patriarch donated the Chief Dayo Ogboja Memorial Hall to the Church. This significant addition to his legacy was formally dedicated by His Eminence, Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, the Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria. The hall stands as a functional monument to Chief Ogboja’s lifelong service, ensuring that his name remains synonymous with the development and spiritual growth of Osi-Ekiti for generations to come.
The service was conducted with the highest ecclesiastical honours, presided over by the apex of the Methodist Church hierarchy: His Eminence Dr. Oliver Ali Aba, JP, Prelate of the Methodist Church Nigeria; the Archbishops of the Methodist Church from Ogun, Osun, and Ekiti States; and Retired Archbishop Ayo Ladigbolu.
Shortly after the church service, a private interment was held for the immediate family to lay him to rest.
More Pictures of family members paying their last respect:
