For Ayodele ‘Chop Kola’ Alabi, losing his beloved father is like a hole in the heart.

But, amidst the pains, Alabi looks back with gratitude for his late Dad’s lifetime, and the enduring bond they shared.

On Friday, 9th October, 2026, Alabi and his families put the shock aside and held a befitting farewell for their father; Pastor Prince John Afolabi Alabi, who passed unto glory at a ripe age of 95 on 9th May, this year.

The burial ceremony commenced at 8am on Wednesday, 7th October, with Service Of Songs at Pastor Prince John Afolabi Alabi’s residence, 14 Oluwaseun Street, Off Plaza, Oke Ijebu in Akure, Ondo State.

On Thursday, 8th October, the family held a Lying In State session early in the morning between 8am to 12:00 noon at his residence in Akure, and continued with the Christian Wake Keep from 4pm at his other residence in Ilogbo Road, Osi Ekiti, Ido Osi Local Government.

The late Pastor Prince John Afolabi Alabi’s final journey home took place on Friday, 9th October, when his remains were laid to rest from 8am at his residence in Ilogbo Road, Osi Ekiti.

After the burial formalities, a reception was held at the Health Center Field, Iropora Road, Osi Ekiti, where the guests were entertained.

Throughout the funeral ceremony, family members, associates, friends from all walks of life and Chop Kola’s classmates at Christ’s School Alumni Association 79/84 Set were on ground to support him.

A visibly elated Chop Kola expressed deep appreciation first to God Almighty for making the funeral ceremony a huge success.

He also extended special thanks to his classmates from the 79/84 Set Of Christ’s School Alumni Association, ably led by the Chairman Sola Fasanmi.

According to Alabi, his classmates stood solidly behind him, and he would not forget their support and encouragement during his trying moments.