The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Ijebu-Ode chapter has officially split into two chapters: CAN Ijebu-Ode Local Government Chapter and Ijebu-Ode LCDA (Local Council Development Area) . This development was announced during the association’s yearly Universal week of Prayer meeting at stakeholders’ houses
Rev’d. Dr. Dele Taiwo, Chairman of CAN Ijebu-Ode LG Chapter, explained that the division was necessary due to the vast land area of Ijebu-Ode town and the need for effective administration.
The Bishop Elect Hon. Dr. Wasiu Olalekan Oluwatosin buttressed that the two chapters are divided by the Ejirin-Folagbade road down to Ibadan access road, with the I-Ode LG chapter taking side on the central mosque; Our Saviour Itaolowajoba Ijasi side. While the Wasimi African church (Awujale side) down to Ibadan access road belong to I-Ode LCDA chapter.
The Ijebuode LG chapter is chaired by Rev’d Dr Dele Taiwo, while the LCDA chapter is chaired by Bishop Elect Hon. Dr Wasiu Olalekan Oluwatosin.
The event which took place in various stakeholder houses was attended by prominent figures, starting from the Awujale’s palace, Oba Dr. S.K. Adetona CFR, who was praised for his support and commitment to the association.
Notable attendees included the Asiwaju Onigbagbo of Akile Ijebu, Chief Christian Olufunlola Okunowo, who was recognized for his decades-long dedication to advancing the work of God and humanity across Ijebuland.
The event also brought together various Ijebu towns and obas in solidarity and support; The Ebumawe of Ago Iwoye, Oba Abdulrazaq Adesina Adenugba, the Dagburewa of Idowa; Oba Y. O Adekoya, the Onirolu of Irolu, Alayeluwa of Odogbolu, Oba M. A. Daini and many others.
The prayer meetings were held at various other locations, including Olisa’s palace, Oba R.A. Adesanya, Chief Okunowo’s residence, and the late Otunba (DR) Micheal Olasubomi Balogun’s residence where the event was marked by cooperation, ambiance, and support from dignitaries such as Senator Gbenga Daniel and the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebu land, Mrs Atere, most of Ijebu Obas and a lot others.
The Late Asiwaju’s son, Ladi Subomi, and his mother, were overwhelmed with gratitude as they expressed their heartfelt thanks to the CAN faithful and dignitaries present for their unwavering loyalty and love towards the late Asiwaju and his family.
They confessed that the impressive turnout was a pleasant surprise, as they had anticipated a lower attendance due to the Asiwaju’s passing. The family’s appreciation was evident as they acknowledged the continued support and affection shown to them, even in their time of grief.
This display of solidarity and respect from the CAN community and dignitaries was a testament to the late Asiwaju’s enduring legacy and the impact he had on those around him.
The CAN Ijebu-Ode main request from all stakeholders are two new buses, an acre of land, while praying for the realization of Ijebu state during Awujale’s lifetime.
In another development, Chief Folorunso Sonny Kuku, a prominent figure in Ijebu-Ode, made history by hosting the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) faithful for the first time. This remarkable event showcased Kuku’s commitment to interfaith dialogue and understanding.
The Olorogun and Ogbeni Oja of Ijebu-Ode was overwhelmed with joy and gratitude as he received a special request from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN).
According to him, CAN’s leadership approached him with a heartfelt invitation to host the annual residential prayer program a tradition deeply rooted in the organization’s values.
The invitation was made in the spirit of Kuku’s illustrious predecessor, Chief Timothy Odutola, the OJAJA GBA, the immediate passed Ogbeni Oja.
This reference underscored the significance of the request and the high esteem in which Kuku was held by the CAN community being the new Ogbeni Oja.
After careful consideration and lengthy deliberations, Kuku ultimately accepted the proposal despite his packed schedule and numerous commitments, he recognized the importance of this event and the value of collaborating with CAN.
For emphasis, he shared the fascinating story surrounding his birth. He said, his father, a former vice chairman of CAN had lost ten children before him.
However, after meeting Apostle Ayo Babalola while his mother was pregnant with him, the Apostle prophesied that the child would survive and be named Amos.
True to the prophecy, Kuku was born, and his father christened him Amos.
He explained that this unique circumstance has driven his passion for serving humanity, much like the biblical figure Amos, who was known for being a burden bearer.
However, responding to the CAN chairman’s caution that the attraction might be limited to a specific time and season depending on if the next Ogbeni Oja will be a christian, Kuku advocated for tolerance and inclusivity. He suggested that CAN should welcome anyone, regardless of their religion, who shows genuine interest in their activities. This stance underscores Kuku’s commitment to fostering a spirit of mutual respect and cooperation between different faith communities.
Moreover, after Chief Folorunso Kuku’s residential visit, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) faithful also paid their respects to: the Late Professor Adebayo Adedeji’s family: As the Asiwaju and Olotufore of the Ijebu-Ode family, Professor Adedeji’s legacy was honored during the visit, the Late Mother Celestial Iyabode Odunmolorun Omotayo (JP) family: The family of the revered Mother Celestial was also visited, paying tribute to her contributions to the community, the Late Omoba J.K. Oduwole’s family: The family of the late Omoba J.K. Oduwole was similarly honored, recognizing his impact on Ijebu-Ode.
The Universal Week of Prayer event in Ijebu-Ode was deemed highly successful. Each family visited went above and beyond to warmly welcome and entertain their guests. The event fostered a sense of community and joy, with participants leaving each day feeling fulfilled and eager to return the next day.
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