Adebayo Family Disowns Archbishop’s Political Remarks at Former Governor’s Funeral‎

Adebayo Family Disowns Archbishop’s Political Remarks at Former Governor’s Funeral‎

By Abiola Adigun| Albarka 89.9 FM | October 14, 2025

The family of the late former Governor of Kwara State, Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, has distanced itself from the political comments made by the Archbishop of the Kwara Anglican Province, Most Reverend Israel Amao, during the funeral service held on Saturday in Oke Onigbin, Irepodun Local Government Area.
In a statement issued and signed by Bukunola Ajayi (Adebayo) on behalf of the family, the Adebayos said Archbishop Amao’s remarks were “unauthorized, regrettable, and contrary to the values” of the late elder statesman.
“We wish to clearly distance ourselves from the remarks made by Archbishop Amao during the burial service last Saturday. Those comments do not reflect our views and were made without our knowledge or endorsement,” the statement read.
Describing the late Chief Adebayo as a man of peace who respected authority, the family expressed disappointment that his funeral was used as a platform for political commentary, saying such action was inconsistent with his lifelong principles.
“Our father was a man of peace who respected authority, and it was unfortunate that his funeral was used as a platform for such remarks. Those remarks did not reflect his values,” the family added.
The Adebayos clarified that the bishop’s message was not reviewed or approved by any family member and that Archbishop Amao was not selected by the family to deliver the homily.
“The bishop’s message was not known to any family member beforehand, nor was he selected by the family,” the statement said.
They further expressed deep regret to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for any discomfort caused by the cleric’s statements, reaffirming their gratitude for the governor’s support and presence at the burial events.
“We deeply regret any discomfort caused to His Excellency, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and reaffirm our respect and appreciation for the support extended to our family during the burial ceremony,” the statement read.
The family dismissed as “false and malicious” any insinuation that the preacher’s selection was part of a plot to embarrass or undermine the Kwara State Government.
Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, who served as Governor of Kwara State between 1979 and 1983 and later as a federal minister, passed away recently after a distinguished career in public service and education.
His burial ceremony, attended by top political figures, clerics, and community leaders, had been meant to celebrate his life and legacy — until the archbishop’s politically charged sermon drew criticism across sections of the state.
The family Pledged to uphold Chief Adebayo’s legacy of peace, dignity, and service to humanity while maintaining “a cordial and respectful relationship with the Kwara State Government.”