In a remarkable display of solidarity and respect for leadership, journalists from Oyo State and beyond gathered in large numbers to support the state council chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Ademola Babalola, at the final burial ceremony of his late mother, Mama Wulemotu Aweni Babalola.
Mama Wulemotu, who passed away on Sunday, November 3, 2024, was honored in a ceremony that showcased both heartfelt support and exemplary organization from the journalistic community.
The turnout wasn’t limited to local journalists; colleagues from neighboring states, including Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Ondo, and Ekiti, as well as representatives from the NUJ’s B Zone (Southwest), came to pay their respects. This broad attendance underscored the high regard in which Comrade Babalola is held and demonstrated the unity among members of the Fourth Estate.
The ceremony was a testament to the dedication and multifaceted skills of NUJ members, many of whom volunteered to oversee protocol, media coordination, and general services. Their seamless execution highlighted the depth of talent within the Union, with each task managed with precision and a commitment to excellence.
Key figures in the organization efforts included Adebayo Raji, Chairman of the Correspondent Chapel, whose military-like focus and discipline ensured the smooth flow of service to guests. Leading a well-coordinated team, Raji and his colleagues worked tirelessly to ensure that every guest felt welcome and attended to, reflecting the camaraderie within the NUJ family.
In the catering section, Dupe Fehintola, Chairman of the BCOS Chapel, alongside Omolola Alamu, Chairperson of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), and other notable members like Iyabo Adebisi from FRCN and Mosun Akintola, a respected member of Oyo NAWOJ, supervised food distribution. Their cheerful professionalism ensured guests enjoyed a variety of dishes, with servers skillfully managed to prevent any oversight.
Prominent elders within the journalistic community, such as Dare Fatube, Sola Adeyemo, Rotimi Babalola, Bola Okanlawon, and Bayo Akamo, also attended, arriving early to lend their support. Their presence not only symbolized solidarity but also added gravitas to the event, reinforcing the respect and admiration Comrade Babalola commands within his peers.
The media team was meticulous, capturing significant moments and conducting interviews with dignitaries, ensuring every attendee felt acknowledged. This level of professionalism in covering the event emphasized the NUJ’s commitment to excellence in both journalism and event management.
Guests were treated to an abundance of food and refreshments, with offerings so varied that many were able to sample multiple dishes. The hospitality extended to attendees, including some from nearby communities who took part in the celebration, further illustrated the warmth and generosity that marked the occasion.
The support displayed by friends and colleagues of Ademola Babalola transformed the event into a memorable gathering marked by coordination, punctuality, and professionalism. Their collective efforts made this celebration not only successful but truly exemplary, showcasing the strength of the journalistic community in Oyo State and beyond.
