| By Godwin Ugbaka
Choir ministration led by Isaac Osuntade, "Zicco" during the Commendation Service of late Dr Oladimeji Emmanuel Folorunso-Ako at Pioneer Church, recently.
Son of late Dr Oladimeji Emmanuel Folorunso-Ako, Lashe, during the Commendation Service at Pioneer Church, recently.
Officiating Ministers during the Commendation Service of late Dr Oladimeji Emmanuel Folorunso-Ako at Pioneer Church, recently.
Children and members of the family of late Dr. Oladimeji Emmanuel Folorunso-Ako during the commendation service at Pioneer Church, recently.
Staff, friends and family gathered at Pioneer Church for the commendation service of Late Dr. Oladimeji Emmanuel Folorunso-Ako, who died on August 16, 2026.
Dr. Folorunso-Ako, fondly called “Coach D,” built much of his career at Babcock University.
He began in Student Services, under the Student Activities unit, where he earned the nickname that stayed with him for life.
He later joined the Department of Public Health as a faculty member before transitioning fully into academics, a role he served with dedication until his passing.
In his homily, Pastor Olugbenga Efutade spoke on the impact of grief on faith and urged believers not to be discouraged by loss.
He noted that while death brings pain, God’s promises remain sure.
Citing John 15:7 and Matthew 7:7-8 on answered prayer, and 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 on the resurrection, he said: “For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so will God bring with him all those who sleep in Jesus... And so shall we ever be with the Lord. Let us comfort one another with these words.”
“Don’t let the devil push you to the place of disillusionment. We shouldn’t lose him and lose our faith,” he added.
He prayed for grace for those facing sickness, disappointment and loss, saying “by the grace of God, we will soon be home and we will see God face to face.”
In his oration, Mr. Ebenezer described Dr. Folorunso-Ako as someone who “brought life to any place he visited” and was a dramatic personality.
He said “Demeji” cared for everyone and never discriminated by tribe or religion, and that his words would remain indelible.
Dr. Jones Mukoro, in his tribute, said there were never sad moments with him. “Once he enters my house, the first place he goes to is the kitchen. He wants to eat,” he recalled.
His brother, Ayo, said Coach D was the family’s first guardian and counsellor who taught them football and led from the front.
“He knew no fear and I am happy he touched many lives. He did well within a short time and I am happy he came, saw and conquered. We will see again,” he said.