Ìgbésí ayé tí a gbé dáadáa máa ń fi ogún rere sílẹ̀, tí àsìkò kò lè pa rẹ́.
Obituary
Biography of Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu
Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu was born on June 6, 1936, in Oyo to the late Pa Jacob Oyeduntan Akinpelu and the late Mrs. Comfort Ogunjoke Akinpelu (nee Akano). His late father originated from Agbole Gba’Foosa, Akinmoorin, while his late mother was from Ile Ago, a prominent compound in Oyo town. Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu was married to the late Mrs. Florence Mojisola Akinpelu (née Akindele of Laguna compound, Oyo) in April 1965. The marriage is blessed with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Education
Baba Benjamin Akinpelu attended the following schools and institutions:
• St. Paul's Anglican School, Oyo (1942–1947)
• Oyo Divisional Teachers’ Grade II College, Iseyin (1955–1958)
• Government Teachers’ Training College, Ibadan (1958–1960)
• University College, London (1965–1967)
• Outward Bound Schools in Brethaydoe, Beadl, and Weissenhaus in West Germany (1970)
• Springfield College, Massachusetts, U.S.A. (1977–1978), where he graduated with a Master's Degree in Education.
Working Life
He started as a pupil teacher at St. Jude’s School, Aiyegun-Ajina (Osun Area) from 1951–1954, where he had the unique advantage of raising the school to a government-aided institution under the supervision of Pa Emmanuel Enahoro, the then Divisional Education Officer. He subsequently gained admission to Oyo
Divisional Teachers’ Training College, Iseyin, after which he was posted to Oyo Divisional Council School, Ijaiye-Odan in 1957–1958.
Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu gained admission into the prestigious Government Teachers’ Training College, Oke Ado, Ibadan in 1958. Upon graduation in 1960, he was posted to Local Authority Modern School, Fiditi, where he worked as a teacher and later as Principal from 1961–1965.
He left the school upon securing admission to study Adult Education at University College, Ibadan in 1965, graduating with a Bachelor of Education degree in 1967. In September 1967, he joined the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre (C.L.T.C) as an Assistant Instructor Grade II. He rose through the ranks to become the Director General of the Centre, eventually retiring in June 1996.
Public Service Career
Pa Akinpelu was an accomplished individual, highly sagacious, and endowed with a unique sense of humour that was both philosophical and insightful. His commitment to duty was not only exceptional but also inspiring to those around him. Known for his punctuality and strong work ethic, he consistently strove to uphold the highest standards in all his endeavours.
These sterling qualities distinguished him among his contemporaries and made him a dependable and willing instrument in various roles throughout his career:
(i) An Instructor at the Outward Bound Schools in Berchtesgaden, Baad, and Weissenhous, West Germany (1970).
(ii) Secretary to the Management Board of the C.L.T.C (1976–1977).
(iii) A member of the committee that formulated the 1st National Policy on Social Development, Youth, and Sports (the precursor to the NYSC Programme).
(iv) Pioneer Managing Editor of the Centre's Magazine (The Explorer).
(v) Motivator of the infrastructural development of the Centre.
(vi) He authored and co-authored more than eighteen research papers, including Beyond Citizenship and Leadership (1978), Discipline in the Society (1978), and Responsibility and Discipline in Leadership Training (1980), among others.
(vii) He served as a contributing author to Community Education in International Perspectives, edited by Prof. Thomas Bernard (Celecom Corporation, East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, U.S.A., 1979).
Pa Akinpelu introduced and fully developed Community Development and Self-Help Programmes within the Centre’s curriculum, successfully translating these initiatives into practical action at the grassroots level. As the pioneer Principal of the resuscitated Mobile Unit, Pa. Akinpelu led the Centre’s instructors and students to war-affected areas immediately after the Nigerian Civil War to implement Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Reconciliation Programmes, an initiative successfully executed in 1970. Working in such a unique institution afforded him the opportunity to meet many influential people and impart experiential education to many young Nigerians, many of whom have occupied prominent positions in public and private service.
Christian Life
Pa Benjamin Akinpelu was born into the Anglican faith and, by grace, remained an Anglican throughout his lifetime. He was baptized and confirmed in the Church. He was an active participant in Sunday school programs during his early days and was a member of the choir at St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Oke Esin Ele, Oyo. He was a founding member of the Christ Morning Star Society at St. Michael’s Anglican Church, Oyo. He was also a member of the following societies:
• Egbe Irawo Owuro at St. Luke’s Cathedral, Jos, Plateau State
• Young Men Christian Association at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Ilasamaja, Mushin, Lagos
• Elders Fellowship, St. James Anglican Church, Bada Balogun, Ayobo, Lagos
• Young Men Christian Association at St. James Anglican Church, Bada Balogun, Ayobo, Lagos
Family Life
Pa Benjamin Akinpelu’s entire life was defined by love, wisdom, faith, and unwavering dedication to his family. He was the foundation upon which generations were built, a guiding light whose counsel, strength, and values shaped the lives of his children, grandchildren,nephews, nieces and all who were privileged to know him.
As a husband, father, grandfather, and elder, he nurtured his family with compassion, discipline, and selfless sacrifice. His home was a place of warmth, unity, and encouragement, where family bonds were treasured and strengthened. Through both joyful and challenging times, he remained a steadfast source of support and inspiration.
Though he is no longer with us in person, the legacy of love, integrity, and service that he leaves behind will continue to live on in the hearts and lives of his family for generations to come. We give thanks for a life well lived and for the enduring impact of a truly great family man.
Community Service
For many years, Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu served as a pillar of strength and a beacon of wisdom for the Otitoloju Community Development Association Bada Balogun.Through his dedication to the community development association, he championed initiatives that transformed the neighborhood, improved shared spaces, and enhanced collective well-being of residents. Whether advocating for better infrastructure, organizing community forums, or mentoring the next generation of leaders, He approached every task with selfless dedication and a vision for a brighter future.
Rest in peace, dear elder. Your transition is a great loss, but your legacy of service will inspire this community for generations to come.
Timeline
Location: Ijaiye-Saaki, Nigeria
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Tribute to Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu
Our beloved and wonderful father, Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu, your presence has tremendously shaped our lives in ways that words cannot describe. You were loving, God fearing, humble, sincere, dependable, full of wisdom, and unwavering in strength.
You taught us not through rehearsed speeches, but through the way you lived, always showing up, always helping with all your heart, and always ready to share the goodness of God that was evident in your life. You loved without restraint and unconditionally.
We will miss your sense of humor, your depth of wisdom, and the comfort of knowing you were always there. Thank you for your well lived life, for every sacrifice you made, every lesson that transformed our lives, and every meaningful and beautiful moment you shared with us all.
Your legacy will continue to endure and will forever be cherished in our hearts. May you continue to rest in peace until we meet again and part no more.
Our beloved father and grandfather, Pa Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu, you will always be loved, cherished, and remembered.
Pastor Tunde Jinadu
It still feels like a dream that you are gone. It is hard to accept that I will no longer hear your voice or see your warm smile. Yet, I find comfort in the countless memories and the lasting impact you had on my life.
You were more than a father and an elder—you were a teacher, a mentor, and a man of unwavering discipline and integrity. As I was growing up, I often thought you were too strict. I did not understand then that every correction, every lesson, and every expectation came from a place of deep love and a desire to prepare me for life. Today, as a parent myself, I understand and appreciate your wisdom more than ever.
I will miss our phone conversations, your thoughtful advice, and the joy of spending time with you whenever we met. I am especially grateful that you took the time to teach me about our family tree, ensuring that I would always know where I come from and the legacy I carry.
Thank you for the values you instilled in me, the wisdom you shared so generously, and the example you set through your life. Your influence will continue to guide me, and your memory will forever remain in my heart.
Rest peacefully,Your legacy lives on through your family, and you will forever be loved, honored, and remembered.
-Abidemi Jinadu (nee Akinpelu)
I will forever remember Grandpa Ben as the most kind-hearted soul there was to know. Every time you held a conversation with him, he held on to every detail, so much so that you could feel the love that flowed through him. I am more than blessed to say I knew him. His heart is a testament to his faith, so I know this isn't goodbye, but a "see you later" in glory.
- Heritage Jinadu
Grandpa has always held a special place in my heart. Ever since I met him for the first time when I was young, he showed me so much love and pushed my dreams of playing soccer further. Every time he would call, he always mentioned it. He has been a big motivation to me and is one of the biggest reasons why I keep going even after so many hardships. I will always remember and him for that. Even apart from that, his warming character and cheerful attitude is sometime to look up too. I am so glad to have been able to have him in my life and I will never forget the impact he’s done.
-David Jinadu
Grandpa, it saddens my heart to hear of your passing, in the limited time we spent with each other, I knew you to be a loving and warm soul. I thank God that our paths crossed and I was able to meet you and Grandma, in the flesh. I wish you were able to see me now, as I’ve grown so much, but I know we will be reunited again. Thank you for your love and care for me over the years, I’ll be looking forward to us meeting again on the Lord’s day.
Sincerely,
Samuel Jinadu (Korede)
Grandpa Benjamin, had a great impact on our lives. He shared laughter and wisdom that touched with everyone dearly . His love and his kindness was seen by everyone around him. Although he is no longer with us, his memory will continue to inspire us. Grandpa will be missed but never forgotten.
Ololade Jinadu
Adebayo Oyeronke Iyabo
*Baba Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu*, our beloved uncle, you were more than family. You were a father figure, a counselor, and a friend. Your wisdom, generosity, and laughter filled every room you entered. As a *councilor*, you taught us the value of hard work, integrity, and kindness through your life and service.
Though you are gone, your lessons live in us. Your legacy of love will continue through the lives you touched.
Rest well, Baba. We love you and we will never forget you.
Mr. Emmanuel Bola AKINPELU
TRIBUTE TO BABA AKINOLA AKINPELU
Baba Benjamin Akinola Akinpelu was totally sold to God and a staunch disciple who lived his life for God’s purpose until he closed his eyes here. Baba was completely devoted to the Lord and given to prayers. Committed lover, he loved his darling wife Mama Mojisola Akinpelu till death parted them and he decided to follow her just a year after she left to be with her maker.
A man of excellence who left a footprint on the sand of time making giant impact on Education and leadership training in Nigeria. His contribution and commitment to excellence are well documented for yet unborn generation to benefit from.
Baba loved her children friends. I remember seeing him looking very strong at Tayo’s wedding. After the wedding, Baba called me twice to confirm that I was safely back to my base, each time giving me a fatherly blessings. I saw him about 3 times after Mama’s death, he was sick but I thought he would pull through giving us opportunity to still learn from his wealth of wisdom and intellect. Alas his Maker rounded up the trip. Baba, you must have met your darling wife now. Well done. I pray that God say well done to you.
We thank God for Baba's journey — a man who loved God so deeply and was sold out to prayers. We see the effect of his prayers on his children, whom God has multiplied to him through their spouses and children. Your works live on through your children. You left foot soldiers to continue your good works. I thank God for my friend Oyenike Adesola, the now Matriarch of Akinpelu’s family. She looked after her father till the last breath. We celebrate Deacon Adesola who loved his parents in-laws just as his parents. All Baba’s children loved and cared for him till he finally departed. He lacked nothing because they made provisions for his needs. My prayers for all of you Baba’s children is that your children will appreciate and celebrate you.
Baba, you were a living example of Christ's love. Your unwavering faith and generous heart touched everyone around you. While our hearts ache with the sorrow of your departure, we find profound comfort in knowing you are now resting peacefully in the presence of our Lord.
We take solace in the promise of eternal life, knowing that because of your faith, we will one day be reunited in Heaven. You always pointed us to Christ, and your legacy of prayer, grace, and selfless devotion will continue to guide us all.
Like Brother Paul in 2 Timothy 4:7–8, Baba, you have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, you have kept the faith. From now on, there is reserved for you the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give you on that day.
Thank you for the beautiful memories and for the Christ-like love you so freely gave. Rest well in the arms of Jesus until we meet again.
**Nike Akerele**
YOU CAN NEVER BE FORGOTTEN
It is not possible for someone to forget somebody who gave so much to remember.
How can we forget how your apartment, where you lived for years (56 Sam Shonibare Street), was a family abode for every Akinpelu visiting Lagos?
You are to us a strong disciplinarian.
In my heart, I know you loved your late brother, Late Chief Josiah A. Akinpelu. Your brother once described you to me as very honest, dependable, and trustworthy.
His love for you cannot be quantified.
We will always miss you.
We are consoled that you are resting in the bosom of our Lord and Saviour.
Sleep on, until we meet to part no more.
Godwin Akinpelu
Rest on daddy ❤️
You demonstrated your love for education to us everyday by telling us to focus on our schooling. I know you loved reading and in particular, you always created time to read all your newspapers (Daily Times, Sketch, Punch, Observer, Vanguard, and the Evening Newspapers). You taught me the endurance of learning; you supported my elementary education which became the foundation on which all other accomplishments of mine are built.
You welcomed everyone to your home including myself, you are a father to all of us and not just your own biological children alone. You provided for all of us. We all ate the same food, wore the same clothing, and more importantly, we all attended the same school.
Thank you for the wisdom, and the guidance you shared with us. The lessons we learned from you and your legacy will continue to shape who we are and who we would become.
Rest in perfect peace. Daddy, we will miss you and never forgotten.
Dr. Lydia Oladosu
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