Tragedy struck in Lagos State as Pastor and Magistrate Olasanmi Ogunkanmi, 58, suddenly collapsed and passed away the night after returning from a three-week holy pilgrimage in Jerusalem, Israel.
Ogunkanmi, who served at the Ikeja Magistrate Court, had traveled with the first batch of Lagos pilgrims and was in high spirits upon his return on January 1, 2025, only for his life to be cut short. Described as a “gentle, humble, and amiable” individual, he was highly regarded for his professionalism and dedication.
Reports about the cause of death vary. One source stated that he slumped and died unexpectedly that night, while another suggested that he peacefully slept off but never woke up.
On January 17, 2025, Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), visited Ogunkanmi’s widow in Ikorodu, offering condolences and words of comfort. He described the magistrate’s passing as “providential” given the timing of his death after fulfilling his pilgrimage.
Ogunkanmi’s funeral will take place on February 7, 2025, following a Service of Songs on February 6, 2025.