Oyo Catholic Bishop Emeritus Julius Adelakun dies at 91

The Bishop Emeritus of the Catholic Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Julius Babatunde Adelakun, has died at the age of 91.

His death was announced in a statement on Saturday by the Bishop of the Diocese of Oyo, Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, who said the cleric passed away on Friday after living what he described as “a full and impactful life.”

Bishop Adelakun, who served as the spiritual head of the Oyo Diocese for 36 years, was first appointed Bishop on April 13, 1973, and retired on November 4, 2009.

In his tribute, Bishop Badejo said the late cleric’s life was marked by faith, humility and unwavering dedication to the service of God and humanity.

“He shepherded the Diocese of Oyo with dedication for decades, leaving behind a legacy of faithful service to God, the Church and humanity,” Badejo said.

He added that funeral arrangements would be announced later, while urging Catholics in the diocese to continue praying for the peaceful repose of Bishop Adelakun’s soul.

Born on November 4, 1934, Julius Adelakun was ordained a Catholic priest on June 27, 1965, and later consecrated Bishop on February 11, 1973.

Until his death, he was revered for his wisdom, simplicity and deep pastoral care, which shaped generations of priests and lay faithful in Oyo and beyond.