By Olugbolade Ogboro
….things to know about him.
Elder Sunday Babalola (JP), whose life’s journey spanned fifty-four years, was born in Ijero-Ekiti, Ekiti State, into the family of the late Mr. Solomon Babalola Omoboriowo and Princess Victoria Omoboriowo.
He embarked on his educational journey at Saint Peter’s Catholic Primary School, Ijero-Ekiti, and continued at Doherty Memorial Grammar School, Ijero-Ekiti. Later, he pursued his studies at the International Institute of Journalism IIJ, earning his diploma in journalism.
Late Mr. Sunday Babalola along his Senior colleagues played a pivotal role in securing the first video and photo camera for the Ekiti State Ministry of Information when Ekiti was created in 1996 during the tenure of the then military head of state, late General Sanni Abacha.
He, along with his senior colleagues who served under the Directorate of Food, Roads, and Rural Infrastructure (DIFRRI), and later the Ministry of Information, Youths, Sports, and Culture in Akure, Ondo State, fervently advocated for the film section to be equipped with the tools needed to kick start work in Ekiti. This dedication stemmed from his unwavering commitment to safeguarding his profession.
Upon the creation of Ekiti State, late Elder. Sunday Babalola was among the pioneers of the film section within the ministry. In October 1996, he began working at the Ministry of Information, Youths, Sports and Culture in Ekiti State and later transitioned to the Ministry of Works. He continued to serve under various administrations, both governors and deputy governors, throughout the state’s history. He meticulously documented events since the state’s creation,earning him the moniker “the Google of his time” due to his logical and comprehensive records that made it easy to trace information.
He was an embodiment of the civil service rules and regulations, one he religiously adheres to and teaches to his other colleagues. He would clearly point it to you where it was written and implications for flouting.
Late Elder Sunday Babalola faced numerous life-threatening situations on the job, yet he remained undeterred, resolute, and professional. He captured events, even during perilous incidents, relying on his faith for protection.
One event that remains etched in the history of Ekiti State is the Segun Oni Vs. Dr. Kayode Fayemi re-run election debacle in 2009. Despitee the violence and intimidation that marred the election, Elder Sunday Babalola fearlessly documented the events as they unfolded, working as the information camera officer at the office of the Deputy Governor Alhaji Tai Lawal.
Late Elder Sunday Babalola also served in various capacities during former Governor Ayodele Fayose’s two terms, first at the deputy’s office and later at the governor’s office. He was also present during Dr. Kayode Fayemi’s first term as governor between 2010 to 2014.
His dedication to the role led to his recall to Governor Kayode Fayemi’s press crew during the second term, known as “JKF 2.0.” by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Mr.Olayinka Oyebode.
This demonstrated professionalism and commitment again earned him the opportunity to serve under the incumbent governor, Mr. Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji.
Late Elder Sunday Babalola bore witness to virtually all the elections, tribunals, and inauguration ceremonies of past governors of Ekiti State since its inception.
He loved and worked hard to give his children that life he never had , all his concerns were always about his three children -He never joked with their welfare.
Tragically, he passed away on September 12, 2023, at the age of 54, succumbing to a sudden bout of stomach ache at the Ekiti State Teaching Hospital (EKSUTH) in Ado Ekiti. He had only three more years left until retirement from the civil service, after which he intended to join active politics.
His wife, Mrs. Adejoke Babalola, and their children survived him. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness, warm smile, wisdom, and unwavering faith.
On the eve of his final burial, his wife appealed for government assistance in caring for the children he had cared for and worked diligently to provide for throughout his life.