By ‘Yomi Ayeleso
The ancient community of Igbotako in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State last weekend played host to dignitaries from all walks of life who came to celebrate a prominent son of the community and a gallant police officer, Bode Ojajuni, a deputy commissioner of police on his installation as Baba Ijo of Methodist Church and the 80th birthday of his mother, Chief Elizabeth Abosede Ojajuni.

The new church auditorium of the Methodist Church in Igbotako was filled to the brim with friends, colleagues, community leaders, traditional and religious leaders from far and near who came to celebrate the auspicious occasion with the Ojajuni family.
The installation of the police officer as the Baba Ijo was in recognition of his numerous contributions and commitment to the growth of the church and the community at large.

In his sermon during the service, the Archbishop of Methodist Church Nigeria , Diocese of Igbobini, Dr O.O Fafeyiwa while congratulating him for being installed as Baba Ijo, called on him to be more dedicated to the development of the church and the advancement of humanity.
The visibly elated DCP Ojajuni, flanked by other siblings commended friends and other well wishers who thronged the community to celebrate with him and his mother.

He revealed that he was determined to follow the footsteps of his forefathers who brought Methodist Church to the community in 1914 by ensuring the growth and expansion of the church as the Baba Ijo.
He said, ” I feel so good to be installed as the Baba Ijo because my grandfather was the one that brought Methodist Church to Igbotako from Igbobini via Epe in 1914.
” It was the second Methodist Church in the whole Ikale/Ilaje land and I am extremely delighted that I am following the steps of my forefathers in the work of God, which I will continue to do. “
Mama Elizabeth Abosede Ojajuni who was full of excitement gave glory to God for sparing her lives to celebrate her four decades on earth in good and sound health.
One of the friends of the DCP Ojajuni, Prince Yomi Omogbehin described the gallant and celebrated police officer as a committed community leader and man with great passion for things of God.
The Jegun of Idepe Okitipupa, Oba Michael Obatuga said it is by grace of God that Mama Ojajuni was alive to celebrate her 80th birthday anniversary, adding that DCP Ojajuni has over the year distinguished himself as a police officer with his unmatched philanthropist gestures to people and the church of God.
Other highlights of the event was the cutting of the 80th birthday cake by the mother, joined by clerics, children, and family members.

Guests and other well wishers were hosted in a reception at his expansive house with sumptuous meals, assorted drinks and good musicals.
DCP Bode Ojajuni was one time Police Public Relations Officer for Lagos state command and at present the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) Ogun State Command.