Lagos witnessed a blend of solemn tribute and celebratory elegance as the Johnson-Agiri family laid their patriarch, Chief Julius Adeoye Aderoun 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.
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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 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 photos from the event below. (PHOTOS: 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.
