Lagos witnessed a blend of solemn tribute and celebratory elegance as the Johnson-Agiri family laid their patriarch, Chief Julius Adeoye Aderonmu Johnson-Agiri, to rest at the age of 88, in ceremonies that reflected both his stature and the deep roots he nurtured across generations.
The late elder statesman, described by family members as a pillar of strength and wisdom, was honoured with a multi-day funeral programme that drew relatives from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
Children and loved ones travelled home in large numbers, determined to give their father a befitting send-off marked by dignity, culture and grandeur.
Proceedings began on April 29 with a Service of Songs held in Oko Oba, Agege, where friends, associates and well-wishers gathered to celebrate a life of impact through hymns and heartfelt tributes.
The following day, April 30, featured a Commendation Service at St. Judes Anglican Church in Ebute Metta.
The ceremony transitioned into a solemn procession to Epe, the family’s ancestral home, where the body was received for lying in state at the Johnson-Agiri residence on Apena Street.
As the sun set, the community came alive once more for the wake keeping at St. Michael Anglican Church, Off Popo Oba, Epe. It was a night of reflection, prayers and shared memories, underscoring the enduring legacy of the late chief.
The final rites on May 1 combined reverence with celebration.
The funeral service, interment and reception were all held in Epe, drawing a distinguished crowd.
Also read: Nollywood stars storm Ibadan for Bukky Amos-Bello’s father’s burial
The reception at Jubilee Chalets transformed into a vibrant social gathering, with popular musician Awesome Tunes entertaining guests and adding a lively tone to the occasion.
Chief Johnson-Agiri is survived by his aged wife, children and grandchildren, who continue to uphold his legacy.
His children, in order of age, are Adebukola Agbaminoja, Adebisi Johnson-Ogunsaju, Adedotun Johnson-Agiri, Adegboyega Johnson-Agiri and Adedipo Johnson-Agiri.
For many attendees, the ceremonies, professionally organised and executed by On Dot Experience, were more than a farewell. They were a powerful reminder of a life well lived, a legacy firmly rooted in family values and community influence, and the enduring honour of giving a patriarch a royal goodbye.
See full album below. The event was covered by Iretura.
Ojelabi, the publisher of Freelanews, is an award winning and professionally trained mass communicator, who writes ruthlessly about pop culture, religion, politics and entertainment.
