TRIBUTE TO A MAN OF GOD AND A PRINCE OF OGORILAND : REV. BENNETT ABEGBOYE OLABAYO.
Rev. Bennett Adegboye Olabayo, was born on February 20, 1951, in Ogori, in Ogori/ Magongo Local Government of present-day Kogi State, Nigeria, to Pa. Joseph and Ma. Esther Olabayo both of blessed memories.
He started his Primary education quite early in St. Peter’s Primary School, Ogori where he earned his First School Leaving Certificate.
He later left for Ondo in Ondo State for his Secondary School studies.
At that early age, he exhibited a deep love for God, which later shaped the course of his life.
He started his Professional journey in the Ministry of Agriculture, Ilorin, Kwara State, where he picked a career in Animal Husbandry.
Seeking to enhance his skills and knowledge in this field, he pursued further studies at various Institutions.
These included the School of Agriculture in Ilorin, Kwara State (1975-1976).
In order to improve himself further,he proceeded to College of Agriculture and Animal Science, ABU, Mando Road, Kaduna,where he obtained his OND in the same field, (1979-1980).
His quest for more knowledge again led him to further his studies, thereby obtaining an HND in the College of Animal Husbandry in Vom, Jos, Plateau State (1982-1984).
In the same year, he was mobilized for the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kaduna.
He got married to his beloved wife, Pst. Mary Omolola Olabayo on the 2nd April, 1983,with whom,he enjoyed 40 solid years of a Godly marriage and a blessed home.
The marriage is blessed with children and grandchildren.
Despite his successful career in agriculture, Rev. Olabayo felt a strong calling towards spiritual service.
He decided to embarked on a journey of spiritual growth, thus, he enrolled in the Igbaja Seminary School where he obtained a Diploma in Pastoral Studies.
In addition,he got a Certificate in Counseling, which further equipped him for his future endeavors in God’s Vineyard.
This was a very noticeable phase in the establishment of The Evangelical Church Of Yahweh.
He was a mobile institution and a memory bank of the Church.
In a significant display of faith and obedience to God’s call, Rev. Olabayo voluntarily resigned from his position in the Ministry of Agriculture to pursue full-time Ministry work in the Vineyard of the LORD.
As one of the longest-serving Ministers, in Evangelical Church of Yahweh (ECOY), he held various positions within the church, demonstrating unwavering commitment, loyalty, and dedication.
He served as a Disciple between 1974- 1989 and was the Vice Chairman of the National Prayer Band of the Church from 1978-1982.
In August 1989, he was ordained as an Evangelist and subsequently, a Reverend in August 2002.
His contributions to the growth of the Church, extended beyond ordinary Ministry roles.
He served as the Choir Master (1992- 2002), Chairman of the Evangelism Team (2002 -2005), and initiated the Mid-Year Revival program. In 2005, he was later transferred to the London Branch of the Church to serve as the Minister in Charge.
Rev. Olabayo’s leadership qualities were recognized by the Management of the Church.
He was therefore, appointed the General Evangelist of the Church in August,2013.He later became the District Overseer of the London District in 2014.
Rev. Olabayo’s life was marked by his genuine love for people and his fervent desire for their spiritual well-being.
He thus ,dedicated himself to mentoring and nurturing individuals within the Church, emphasizing the importance of succession and spiritual growth.
Regardless of the times and seasons, his favorite chorus that was always on his lips is;
We are grateful oh Lord/x2
For all you have done for us
We are grateful oh Lord
Another favourite song of his”When we Walk with the Lord” was a frequent reminder of his journey with God.
His impact extended beyond the boundaries of his Congregation, as he actively engaged in community service, leaving an enduring legacy of kindness and generosity.
On December 11, 2023, Rev. Bennett Adegboye Olabayo peacefully passed onto glory leaving behind a rich legacy of faith, service, and compassion.
His life served as a testament to the transformative power of unwavering faith and selfless devotion to God and humanity.
He is survived by his beloved wife, children, and grandchildren, who will continue to cherish his memory and uphold the values he exemplified throughout his lifetime.
The Outing/Thanksgiving Service is slated for Saturday, 9th March,2024 in Ilorin, Kwara State.
May his gentle soul continue to Rest In Perfect Peace.Amen.
*Emmanuel Bolaji Boro JP *
