She was 76 by the time she went to be with the Lord on January 1, 2022. But to many who knew evangelist Agnes Iyabo Ogunsaju, she went too soon.
Evangelist Ogunsaju
Her transition came as a shock especially to those who had close contact with her and who drank from her wealth of wisdom.
Married to Engineer ‘Tunde Ogunsaju for over 50 years, Mummy Ogunsaju as she was fondly called was the quintessential mother in Israel
She was a kindhearted, loving, caring, and compassionate mother of five children, eight grandchildren, and many other adopted sons, daughters, and grandchildren.
She was a teacher by profession and a minister of the gospel by calling. She loved and enjoyed teaching. She was head of many schools especially in Kaduna for about 30yrs before retiring and pursuing another passion – Baking/Catering.
Mummy Ogunsaju taught Sunday School for about 15 years and ministered to the needs of the adolescent. She was one of the pioneer executives of Flame Fellowship International in Kaduna and was a Matron of the Anglican Youth Fellowship
Through her interactions with women within and outside the church, she came to realize the importance of godly and peaceful homes through which God can reach out to a hurting world.
She evangelised Muslim dominated areas
Apart from ministering to souls, she was also into church administration. She was a member of the Parish Church Council (PCC) of St. Christopher’s Anglican Church Kaduna where she and all members of her family came to know the Lord.
She loved to evangelize and was involved in a lot of church planting in some predominantly Muslim areas of Offa Local Government Area of Kwara State, Nigeria. Her Muslim background endeared her to many Muslims and she often longed and prayed for their conversion.
She understands by God’s grace, ”The Love that drew Salvation’s Plan, and the Grace that brought it down to Man.
Mummy Agnes Ogunsaju was a firebrand in God’s hands. She was a church planter and builder with the help of her dear husband. She was a prolific writer, preacher, evangelist, and intercessor.
She let GOD use her to be a blessing to many widows and widowers, to a lot of people in physical/financial need, and to many school children that needed school fees.
The amazing daughter of Zion also reached out to many pastors, ministering to their physical, financial, marital, and spiritual needs. She partnered with various people to spread the love of Jesus Christ.
Tributes
The transition of Mummy Ogunsaju who was born on March 21, 1945, caught many unawares.
Tolu Ifabiyi in his tribute wrote, “Grandma, it is very difficult to understand that you are no longer with us. I remember all the kind and encouraging messages you would send, the Bible verses, and the prayers.
“You have always been a light that pointed people to God. I will also never forget your hospitality when we came to visit you at your home in Ofa. It was a beautiful time of reunion and joy as we reminisced on life in Nigeria and reconnected with old friends in your home.
“You welcomed us with open arms. That day will always be a special highlight of my Nigeria trip. I am also so grateful for all your prayers and honoured to have had you at my wedding. Thank you for your support, thank you for being there for us. We are saddened by your passing, but comforted knowing you are with Christ and basking in his glory. This is not goodbye but see you later. Rest on Ma.”
Knowing Ogunsaju was a delight
A Regional Pastor and Assistant Continental Overseer in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, The Americas Continent Dr.Olayinka Dada, and his wife, Oluwatoyin in their tribute said it’s difficult to fathom her sudden departure.
They wrote further, “Knowing you, was a great delight, and talking to you extinguished any form of loneliness and rejection. You were a mother indeed and the great memories that we have of the wonderful words God used you to speak into our lives will remain with us as we continue to remember you.
“Truly “the memory of the just is blessed”, Proverbs 10:7. We have learned that death to the atheist is an enigma, to the unbeliever it is the end, but for the believer: an entrance! Entrance into the presence of your Maker waiting to give you your crown! O daaro Mummy Ogunsaju until the resurrection morning.”
AkinTunde Popoola simply went philosophical. He wrote, “I was lost for words until I pictured you smiling as you marched triumphantly into indescribable glory. Evangelist, God knew that it was time for you to return home having finished your race here on earth.
“We will surely miss your thought-provoking encouragement, prayers, charity, divinely inspired messages, and cheerful demeanor. Enjoy yourself with your Savior. We pray that none of your fruits or stars will depart from the Way in Jesus’ name.”
For Titilayo Ogunsakin, mummy Ogunsaju’s life was that of love, service, giving, and dedication. She described her as “a General in God’s own army, bringing Christ to many homes and lives. No, wonder the outpouring of grief at your departure, much sooner than we wish.
“We love you but it pleases God to recall you home at this time. We are already missing you: the love, care, and support at critical times of our lives. Rest well in the bosom of our Lord. O di arina ko, o d’oju ala. Sun re o. Mama rere.’
Francis Olatunbosun recalled the first time he met mummy Ogunsaju describing the warm reception she accorded him.
He remarked, “Personally, I wish you stay more with us but God knows best and no one can question Him. We love you and will forever miss you but I am most convinced that God loves you more. Rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
