A social analyst, Simeon Bankole, has mourned the death of his mother, Madam Emily Abeni Bankole, who passed away at the age of 96.
Bankole, in a tribute sighted on Facebook by Veracity News, described his late mother as a devoted Christian, bridge builder and unifier whose life was dedicated to raising God-fearing children and making positive contributions to humanity.
“To God be the glory, great things He hath done, as Mama Ikereku joins the saints triumphantly.
“God has been extremely faithful as He called home one of His devoted daughters, Madam Emily Abeni Bankole (nee Oliyide), aged 96, who laid down her sword at the feet of Master Jesus on Monday, August 3, 2026.
“The transition, though peaceful, has left the children, especially my immediate family, shattered, as we could no longer host the matriarch of both the Bankole and Oliyide families in Osogbo during the forthcoming 2026 Christmas season.
“It is only God who knows why He has chosen to call her home during this season of praises and conventions. What a style of leaving this sinful world! Mama bade the world farewell amid the Golden Jubilee celebrations of the inauguration of Egba Diocese, Anglican Communion, as well as the 50th anniversary of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Lagos and Western, Mid-Western/Northern Areas (LAWMNA) Territory International Convention.
“I was so overwhelmed by the unexpected and devastating transition of Maami, Iya Ibeji alágbọn (coconut) and kànkàn (sponge) lẹyin ṣọọṣi Ikereku (behind the Church in Ikereku), that temporarily, I lost interest in everything in this world.
“However, my consolation is that we shall meet at the feet of Jesus on resurrection morning.
“How would I describe this sweet mother, who was a bridge builder and unifier of families during her lifetime? Her love for the things of the heavenly race was unparalleled.
“Mama was consistent in participating every year in the Bible Society of Nigeria Bible Quiz until her passing, and she was known for instilling godly virtues in all her children from both sides of the divide.
“The children uphold what she held dear to her heart: unflinching service to the Almighty God and positive impact on humanity.
“Iya Ejire, you suffered so that we, the children, could become God-fearing and successful in life without riding on other people's backs.
“I remember that you borrowed money just to ensure that I survived an attack that almost snuffed life out of me. You cried with burning passion when all hopes were lost for me, and miraculously, God hearkened to the voice of the troubled soul and prayer warrior. Today, we return glory and adoration to His holy name.
“My mum was not educated but ensured that education became a signature and yardstick through which all her children were rated.
“You could hardly distinguish her biological children from the children of her siblings and those in the community. She ensured that she motivated everyone to become educated and independent.
“The wisdom she imparted to us is still sustaining us to date. She taught us to be kind and generous givers, even when she herself suffered a lack.
“Her favourite song, which became part of her throughout her lifetime, was, ‘Through the love of Christ our Saviour, all will be well.’
“Iyawo Baba Tisa (wife of elderly Teacher), the whole Bankole and Oliyide families will not be the same again because your demise has created a big void that will be difficult to fill.
“The Church will not forget in a hurry your dancing skills as you dazzled the whole congregation during the last GBOLUWAGA celebration a few months ago.
“The love and care you extended to my wife, Deaconess Florence Olufunmilayo Bankole, from the very first day you set your eyes on her until you breathed your last, made me green with envy.
“Your grandchildren based in Osogbo, Sam-Sam, Emmanuel and Timothy, will remember your pepper soup for a very long time to come.
“All other grandchildren are also heartbroken over the earthly loss and heavenly gain of Mama Agba.
“Rest well in the bosom of Jesus Christ, abiyamo, that will be very hard to forget. 🙏
“Good night, ẹgbọn Deaconess Modupe Ajayi, iya Funmilayo, Ọṣọ, Olufemi, Olutoyin, Gbolahan, Kehinde, Adebayo, Olabisi, Iyabode and Olanrewaju.
“The children of your siblings, Abiodun, Olusina, Olusola, Olukunle, Oluyinka, Remilekun, Kikelomo, Abidemi, Oluseyi, Peluolami, Iyabode, Dolapo, Olanrewaju, Lolu, Soloye, Bukola, Aanuoluwapo, Adesina and Olayinka, mourn your exit as well.”
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