Clerics Urge Parents To Raise Children In God’s Way As Late NUT Chairman Is Remembered

Religious leaders have called on parents to raise their children not only with academic excellence but also in the fear and knowledge of God, stressing the importance of spiritual values in shaping future generations.

The charge was made by Pastor Olumide Olujobi of The Apostolic Church during the 20th-year remembrance of Comrade Elijah Adegboyega Adebayo, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) in Osun State.

The memorial event was organized by his children and held in Osogbo, the state capital.

Speaking at the event, Pastor Olujobi praised the late Adebayo for raising godly children and noted that such an upbringing is critical in today’s digital age.

“My message to parents is to train their children in the way of the Lord. Baba Elijah Adegboyega Adebayo did just that, and the results are evident in the lives of his children today,” he said. “If he had not done that, Comrade Adeboye Adebayo, his first son, would not be where he is today.”

Echoing similar sentiments, Prophet Adewale Oyinloye of Jesus Is the Answer Prayers and Evangelical Ministry warned that neglecting godly parenting could jeopardize children’s futures.

“Train your children because they are your tomorrow. Do not let them do whatever they like. If you don’t train them, you are destroying your own future,” Oyinloye cautioned.

The clerics, alongside Pastor Tunde Oluwatomi and other guests, also commended the widow of the late unionist for her dedication to raising the children alone after her husband’s passing two decades ago.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Comrade Adeboye Adebayo, a politician and rights activist, expressed gratitude to those who honored the family’s invitation, even on short notice.

He described his late father as a principled teacher, unionist, and family man whose legacy continues to guide his children.

“He was more than a father; he was a pillar to many. A loving and disciplined man who lived for truth, service, and faith,” Adeboye said. “His efforts in education, labour advocacy, and community service left footprints that still inspire us today.”

He also noted that his father’s influence extended beyond his immediate family as he impacted the lives of countless students and civil servants through teaching and union leadership.

As the family marked the milestone with a thanksgiving service, Adebayo reaffirmed their commitment to uphold their father’s legacy of integrity, discipline, and service to humanity.