The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade I, has mourned the death of a prominent Oyo prince and renowned cleric, the late Reverend Dr. Akintayo Olufunmilade Suulola, describing him as a man of exceptional integrity, humility and devotion.

The monarch, in a condolence message issued by his Director of Media and Publicity, Bode Durojaiye, described the deceased as “a morally excellent person with character made up of good virtues.”

Oba Owoade said Suulola remained committed to doing what was right, regardless of personal cost, noting that his life was guided by strong moral principles and values.

The late cleric, who was a Chartered Accountant, renowned evangelical preacher and General Overseer of the Scripture Group Mission (SGM), died abroad after undertaking a global crusade. The circumstances surrounding his death remained unclear.

The Alaafin commended Suulola for his perseverance and devotion to his calling, which spanned about five decades, saying his conduct and commitment to evangelism had made him a source of pride to the Oyo Kingdom.

He said, “He exhibited honesty, which is the display of sincerity, integrity and candour in all his lifestyles. He knew that deceptive behaviour would not inspire trust; hence, he based his actions on reason and moral principles.”

According to the monarch, Suulola began his evangelism in Oyo town, where his conduct and character became inspiring to many.

Oba Owoade also described the late cleric as a man who combined deep spirituality with practical love for people, humility, compassion and a strong commitment to prayer and the Scriptures.

He said Suulola was a great listener, intentional about personal witnessing, compassionate towards his critics and known for his gentle spirit and perseverance.

The monarch particularly praised the deceased for his strong attachment to Yoruba culture, saying he demonstrated that Christianity and cultural identity could coexist without compromising religious values.

According to him, Suulola often maintained that “it was not a sin to praise God in one’s culture” and was passionate about worshipping God through traditional Yoruba expressions, including dancing to talking drums and Bata.

Alaafin said the late cleric believed that culture and religion were inseparable, while maintaining that idolatry was what should be rejected.

While commiserating with the deceased’s family, including his aged mother, Oba Owoade said Suulola’s death was a painful loss to the Oyo Kingdom, the Christian community and all those who knew him.

He said death should remind people of the importance of the lives they live and the legacies they leave behind.

“It was so disheartening to know the sudden death of your beloved and illustrious son. He was a nice man to the core. He was a great person and a fantastic human being, well-known for his divine work,” the monarch said.

Oba Owoade urged the deceased’s mother and family to bear the loss with fortitude, assuring them of his sympathy and prayers at the difficult time.