Odogbolu Bids Farewell to Hon. Babafemi Oyewole Diya: An Emotional Farewell from Hon. Chief (Dr.) Babatunde Oyetola Diya and Family
On Friday, October 18th, 2024, the Diya family and the Odogbolu community gathered to pay their final respects to the late Hon. Babafemi Oyewole Diya, a former two-term Member of the Lagos State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives. A committed member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Hon. Diya’s contributions to the political landscape were fondly remembered by family, friends, and colleagues.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was Hon. Chief (Dr.) Babatunde Oyetola Diya, a distinguished member of the family and nephew to the late Hon. Wole Diya. He is also the Olu-Omo of Ikosa, following in the footsteps of his uncle, the former Ogun State Military Governor and Vice President of Nigeria, Late Lt. General Oladipo Donaldson Oyeyinka Diya.
The burial rites began on October 17th, with a solemn procession through the streets of Odogbolu, leading to the Diya family homes and concluding at TANIMOWO COTTAGE, where a Service of Songs was held. The service, officiated by Ven. Benjamin Oludare of the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Odogbolu, reflected on the theme of life’s fleeting nature.
On October 19th, the final farewell was given during a funeral service at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, led by Rt. Reverend Dr. Rotimi Babatunde Ogunbanwo. Drawing from John 9:14, the Bishop urged the congregation to make the most of their time on earth, as death is inevitable for all. He concluded with a powerful reminder: “Do what you can, for the end of days is coming.”
The late Hon. Oyewole Babafemi Diya was celebrated for his generosity, humility, and tireless commitment to others. Many remembered him as a man who always sought to uplift those around him, never hesitating to give, even when he had little himself.
Notable figures from Odogbolu who attended the event included Hon. Chief (Dr.) Babatunde Oyetola Diya, who was joined by APC party leaders, friends from Lagos, and other dignitaries. Among them were Hon. Femi Adeleke Ogunbanwo, Hon. Kolapo Korede Osunsanya, Hon. Adebowale Ojuri, Hon. Atinuke Bello, Barr. Yomi Siwoniku, and many more. The Diya family was also represented by Brigadier Olusola O. Diya, Commander of the 14 Brigade in Abia State, and Dr. Niyi Diya from London, alongside other family members from the diaspora.
The reception was held at the Odogbolu Hall, which overflowed with guests celebrating the life of the late Hon. Diya. The event continued well into the early hours of Sunday, October 20th, as attendees commemorated a life well-lived.
Rest in peace, Hon. Babafemi Oyewole Diya.
B.O.D. Media Team, 2024
