By Law Ibitoye
The Rt. Revd. Olaoti Akinola has urged Nigerian politicians, wealthy individuals and other prominent members of society to prioritise good testimonies over titles and social recognition, stressing that the legacies people leave behind are more important than the positions they occupy.
Akinola gave the charge while delivering a sermon at the funeral and thanksgiving service of late Mrs Abigail Dada Alo, who died at the age of 105, and the 29th remembrance of her husband, late Pa John Oni Alo, at St. John’s Anglican Church, Ilupeju Ekiti on Saturday.
Speaking on the topic, “Your Decisions Determine Your Destination,” with biblical references from Revelation 7:9–17, 2 Chronicles 24:15–16 and Acts 11:22, the bishop said a person’s life was ultimately defined by their testimony before God and humanity rather than the titles they acquired.
He observed that while many people attached great importance to titles, positions and public recognition, such achievements would amount to little without good deeds and a life dedicated to serving God and humanity.
The bishop commended the deceased for remaining committed to God’s service until the end of her life, describing her as a woman who was fervent in the things of God.
He urged elderly people to continue serving God wholeheartedly, regardless of their age, stressing that devotion to God and a life of righteousness were essential to building a worthy testimony.
Akinola also called on politicians, wealthy Nigerians and other influential personalities to use their positions and resources to improve the lives of the less privileged, noting that genuine service to humanity remained a lasting legacy..According to him, people could build worthy testimonies through acts of kindness, generosity, love and commitment to the welfare of others rather than pursuing titles that would eventually lose their significance.
The bishop further admonished the children of the deceased to sustain the legacy of love and unity in their family, remain diligent in their service to God and fulfil their responsibilities to the church and the wider community.
Reflecting on the life of the deceased, the last child of the deceased, Venerable Olabode Alo, described his mother as a woman who lived her life in the service of God and humanity.
He said she was his adviser, encourager, mentor and prayer warrior, adding that she regularly prayed for everyone around her, including people who were not on good terms with her.
According to him, his mother’s life was characterised by faith, love, forgiveness and an unwavering commitment to prayer.
Venerable Alo expressed confidence that his mother would be at the right hand of Christ, having lived a life devoted to God.
The service was attended by numerous clergymen, family members, friends and well-wishers who gathered to celebrate the life and legacy of the deceased and remember her late husband.
The funeral and thanksgiving service also provided an opportunity for the family to reflect on the enduring values of faith, love, service and godliness exemplified by the deceased during her lifetime