Lagos State was thrown into mourning as Pastor and Magistrate Olasanmi Ogunkanmi, 58, tragically passed away on January 1, 2025, just hours after returning from a three-week pilgrimage to Jerusalem, Israel.
Ogunkanmi, who served at the Ikeja Magistrate Court, was part of the first batch of Lagos pilgrims who journeyed to the holy land in December 2024. Known for his humility and dedication, he was widely regarded as a gentle and exemplary public servant.
Circumstances of Death
Reports indicate conflicting accounts of the circumstances surrounding his passing. While some sources say he slumped and died at his residence, others claim he passed away peacefully in his sleep. The suddenness of his death shocked colleagues and family members, as he had reportedly expressed joy and satisfaction upon returning from the pilgrimage earlier that day.
Condolence Visit by NCPC Executive Secretary
Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC), visited the Ogunkanmi family at their residence in Ikorodu, Lagos, on January 17, 2025. During the visit, Adegbite expressed profound sympathy to the widow and described the magistrate’s death as providential.
“Your husband lived a fulfilled life and left an enduring legacy,” Adegbite said. “His passing, coming just after a successful pilgrimage to Jerusalem, is a testament to his devotion to God. It is not how long one lives but how well.”
Adegbite also assured the family of the NCPC’s support in ensuring a befitting burial for Magistrate Ogunkanmi, who was a Pilgrimage Ambassador of Nigeria and Justice of the Peace.
Funeral Arrangements
The late Magistrate will be laid to rest on February 7, 2025, in Lagos. A service of songs will precede the burial on February 6.
Magistrate Olasanmi Ogunkanmi is remembered for his dedication to duty, spiritual devotion, and impactful life. His death marks a significant loss to his family, the Lagos judiciary, and the Christian community.
