The Anglican Communion has been thrown into mourning following the death of retired Archdeacon Emmanuel Olorunmola Ajayi, who passed away at the age of 86.
Ajayi, a former archdeacon of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), died on June 4, 2026, at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Lokoja, Kogi State, after more than four decades of active ministry.
His son, Omeiza Ajayi, announced the death in a statement on Monday, describing his father as a devoted servant of God who completed his earthly assignment with honour and dedication.
During his 41-year ministerial career, Ajayi served in several dioceses across Nigeria and beyond, including Lagos, Kwara, Ondo, Kogi State and Zambia. He was known for his commitment to evangelism, church planting and Christian leadership.
The late cleric also held various leadership positions within the Christian Association of Nigeria and contributed significantly to youth development through his work with the Boys’ Brigade.
A trained musicologist and pianist, Ajayi served as chaplain to choir masters and organists, playing a key role in church music development. He was also recognised for translating Anglican liturgical materials and Yoruba hymns into the Ebira language to promote indigenous worship.
Although he retired as an archdeacon in 2010 after attaining the mandatory retirement age, he remained active in ministry, offering spiritual guidance, counselling and teaching until his death.
Funeral activities will commence on June 11 with a wake and tributes at his residence in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, while the funeral service is scheduled for June 12 at Holy Trinity Anglican Church, Oboroke, Ihima.
He is survived by his wife, five children, grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
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