Kunle Adelabu
The remains of the former Trustee and former Cathedral Warden, The African Church Bethel Cathedral Ikorodu, Prince Ighodalo Jospeh Olanrewaju, have been laid to rest in Ikorodu, about three months after his demise.
Prince Ighodalo, 66 years, died on January 18, 2026, and buried on Friday, April 10, 2027, after a special funeral service at The African Church Bethel Cathedral where he was once the Cathedral Warden (Prime Minister).
Until his death, Prince Ighodalo was a Trustee of the Church.
His funeral service was attended by family members, friends, associates and members of The African Church Bethel Cathedral, Ikorodu, among others.
In a tribute, Mrs Peju Ighodalo, widow of the deceased, descrbed his late husband as her best friend, confidant and partner in every sense.
”Lanre was not just my husband, but my best friend, my confidant, and my partner in every sense of the word. His gentle spirit and unwavering love were the foundation of our life together, and his absence leaves a vacuum that can never be filled. Lanre approached life with a great sense of humor and kindness that could brighten even the darkest days”.
She also commended his dedication to his family and the Church.
The Cathedral Church, in a tribute to its late Warden, described his death as a great loss, and also described him as a man of remarkable character with exemplary service to God.
”The news of his demise came as a profound loss, not only to your immediate family but also to the entire church community and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a man of remarkable grace, unwavering commitment, and exemplary service to God and humanity.
”Late Prince Olarewaju Ighodalo served the church diligently in several key capacities, including as former chairman, church dedication committee; former chairman, harvest Committee, Cathedral People’s Warden, and until his passing, a trustee of the African Church Bethel Cathedral, lkorodu.
”His legacy of selfless service, leadership, and steadfast faith will remain indelible in our hearts.
”His contributions to the growth and unity of the cathedral will continue to speak for a long time after his departure.
Profile of Late Prince Joseph Olarewaju Ighodalo
Prince Joseph Olarewaju Ighodalo was born on May 27, 1960, into the family of Papa Kings Ebhogie and Mama Victoria Ebhogie in ibadan, Oyo State, at a time when his parents had relocated from Edo State to Ibadan in search of better opportunities. He hailed from Esan East Local Government area of Edo State, Nigeria, and remained proud of his roots throughout his lifetime.
He began his early education at St. James Primary School and later attended secondary school in Ondo State. His quest for knowledge led him to Adeyemi College of Education and subsequently to Obefemi Awolowo University where he studied History. His education helped shape his disciplined approach to life, his leadership qualities, and his strong sense of responsibility. Prince Ighodalo began his working career at Adeyemi College.
However, because of his versatile nature and deep passion for entrepreneurship, he soon ventured into private business, engaging in the buying and selling of cocoa for export. Through hardwork, consistency, and honesty, he built a reputation as a trustworthy and dependable businessman, earning the respect of his customers and associates. His integrity and dedication later earned him an employment opportunity with one of his lndian business partners in Lagos, where he served diligently as a Logistics Manager. After several years of meritorious service, he resigned to pursue his entrepreneurial vision by establishing his own freight forwarding and logistics company. Through determination and God’s grace, he built Joslap Seaport Limited into a reputable business, where he served as the Chairman and Chief Excustive Officer until his passing.
On the home front, Olarewaju Ighodalo was a loving and devoted family man. He met his beloved wife in 1998, and their relationship blossomed into a beautiful marriage, which was solemnized in 2003. Their union was blessed with a wonderful daughter who brought him great joy and pride. He was a caring husband and a responsible father who placed great value on family unity, love, and moral upbringing. Prince Ighodalo was also deeply committed to the service of God and His church. He was a devoted member of the African Church Bethel Cathedral where he served faithfully as a two-term Church Warden. In recognition of his dedication, headship, and selfless service, he was appointed a Trustee of the Church in 2025. He was known for his humility, generosity, calm disposition, and willingness to support Church activities and growth of the youth.
Beyond his profession and Church life, as he fondly called, was a man of great character. He was gentle, cheerful, disciplined, and always ready to encourage others. His life was a testimony of perseverance, faith integrity, and service to humanity. He touched many lives through his kindness, wise counsel, and peaceful nature. Though, his passing has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, church, and business associates, his life remains a shining example of a life well spent in service to God and humanity. His legacy of love, integrity, hardwork, and kindness will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.
Prince Joseph Olarewaju Ighodalo’s memory will forever remain a blessing, and his good works will continue to speak for him.
