To GOD be the Glory, Mama Ikereku Joins Saints Triumphantly
To God be the glory, great things He Hath done,
So loved He the world that He gave us His Son,
Who yielded His life an atonement for sins,
And opened the Life Gate that all may go in.
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the earth hear His voice,
Praise the Lord, praise the Lord,
Let the people rejoice!
O come to the Father through Jesus The Son,
And give Him the glory, great things He hath done.
God has been extremely faithful as HE called home one of HIS devoted daughters, Madam Emily Abeni Bankole (nee Oliyide), aged 96 years old, who laid down her sword at the feet of Master Jesus on Monday, 3rd August, 2026. The transition, though peaceful, has left the children, especially my immediate family, shattered as we could no longer host the Matriach of both Bankole and Oliyide families in Osogbo during the forthcoming 2026 Christmas season. It is only God who knows the reason why HE has chosen to call her home during this season of praises and Conventions. What a style of leaving this sinful world! Mama bid the world bye in the thick of the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the inauguration of Egba Diocese (Anglican Communion) as well as the 50th year anniversary of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Lagos and Western, Mid-Western/ Northern Areas (LAWMNA) Territory International Convention.
I was so overwhelmed with the unexpected (un)timely and devastating transition of Maami, Iya Ibeji alágbọn (coconut) and kànkàn (sponge) lẹyin ṣọọṣi Ikereku (behind the Church in Ikereku) that, temporarily I lost interest about everything in this world. However, my consolation is that we shall meet at the feet of Jesus on the resurrection morning.
How would I describe this sweet mother, who was a bridge builder and unifier of families during her lifetime. Her love for the things of the Heavenly race was unparalleled. Mama was consistent at winning every year till her passing, Bible Society of Nigeria Bible Quiz, and she was known to instill Godly virtues in all her children from both sides of the divide. The children uphold what she held dear to her heart: unflinching service to the Almighty God and positive impact on humanity.
Iya Ejire, you suffered so that we the children could become God-fearing and successful in life, without riding on other people’s back. I could remember you borrowed money just to ensure that I survived an attack that almost snuffed life out of me, and you cried with burning passion when all hopes were lost on me, and miraculously, God hearkened to the voice of the troubled soul and prayer warrior, and today, we return glory and adoration to HIS Holy name.
My mum was not educated but ensured that education became a signature and yardstick through which all her children are rated. You can hardly know her biological children from the children of her siblings and children in the community. She ensured that she motivated everyone to be educated and independent. The wisdom she imparted on us is still sustaining us to date. She taught us to be kind and generous givers even when she suffered a lack. Her favourite song, which became part of her throughout her lifetime, was, ‘Through the love of Christ our Saviour, all will be well’.
Iyawo Baba Tisa (wife of elderly Teacher), the whole Bankole and Oliyide families will not be the same again because your demise will create a big void that will be difficult to fill. The Church will not forget in a hurry your dancing skills as you dazzled the whole congregation during the last GBOLUWAGA celebration a few months back. The love and care you extended to my wife, Deaconess Florence Olufunmilayo Bankole, from the very first day you set your eyes on her till you breathed your last, made me green with envy. Your grandchildren based in Osogbo: Sam-Sam, Emmanuel, and Timothy will remember your peppering soup for a very long time to come. Also, all other grandchildren are heartbroken for the earthly loss and Heavenly gain of Mama Agba.
Rest well in the bosom of Jesus Christ, abiyamo, that will be very hard to forget🙏.
Good night ẹgbọn Deaconess Modupe Ajayi, iya Funmilayo, Ọṣọ, Olufemi, Olutoyin, Gbolahan, Kehinde, Adebayo, Olabisi, Iyabode and Olanrewaju. The children of your siblings, Abiodun, Olusina, Olusola, Olukunle, Oluyinka, Remilekun, Kikelomo, Abidemi, Oluseyi, Peluolami, Iyabode, Dolapo, Olanrewaju, Lolu, Soloye, Bukola, Aanuoluwapo, Adesina, Olayinka mourn your exit as well.
