Remembering Pa Anthony Oriakhi
We celebrate the life of a man whose journey was marked by faith, service, and dedicationâPa Anthony Godwin Oriakhi.
Born on 21 July 1933 to James Kelubia and Lucy Oriakhi, Pa Anthony grew up in a home where values of hard work, discipline, and love were cherished. He began his education at St. Matthias on Lagos Island, where he was not only a diligent student but also a proud member of the schoolâs football team.
His professional journey began with Peterson and Zochonis (PZ), where his commitment and skill earned him in-house training at Yaba College of Technology. In 1973, he was promoted and transferred to Onitsha, Anambra State. After two years there, he moved to Kano as an assistant manager. It was in Kano that he became an active member of Christ Apostolic Churchâa relationship with Godâs work that would define the rest of his life.
In 1980, Pa Anthony was transferred to Zaria, where he served until his retirement as Area Manager in 1984. That year was a special oneâhe renewed his wedding vows with his beloved wife and was ordained an Elder in Christ Apostolic Church. His commitment to the church was deep and unwavering. He served as the churchâs financial secretary, as Baba Egbe Irawo Owuro (Morning Glory Patron), and as Baba Egbe Akorin (Choir Patron).
In time, his service was further recognized when he was ordained a pastor in the Christ Apostolic Church. After four decades of faithful work and ministry across different cities, Pa Anthony and his wife returned to Lagos.
Pa Anthony loved God with all his heart and served Him with every gift he had. His life was a testament to the truth that faith and integrity leave a legacy far greater than any earthly possession.
He is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Mrs Victoria Oriakhi, his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildrenâa family that will carry forward his values and his example.
He is remembered as a man of faith, a dedicated husband, a loving father, a faithful servant of God, and a true gentleman. We thank God for the years we were blessed to share with him. His memory will continue to inspire and guide us.
Memorial Service: Thursday, October 2nd, 2025 at 4:00 PM
Internment service: Friday, October 3rd, 2025 at 8:00 AM
Funeral service and thanksgiving 10:00 AM at CAC Agbara Olorun Koseunti,Debojo Eleko.
Reception: Immediately following at Lagos Palm Beach Resort, Debojo. Eleko
Tributes & Memories
My Father! Yes! Daddy!!
Very loving, gentle and compassionate with a kind generous heart. Always giving even when in lack. There was so much we learnt from you. All are welcome to your home, food purposely cooked in the house for anyone around, and shelter for all - anyone passing by, the evangelists or âMan of Godâ doing a meeting around or passing by, your house is a home for all. Ah! Canât forget the countless times that I will bring countless numbers of my friends home (all of us hungry students) and we would clear the house and even when I have left home, many I heard will come to stay for weeks and months, that is what your house is, a guest house to many. Thank you.
In your gentleness you exert authority and firmness without shouting and forcing. You live your life as Godâs servant in a quiet way serving His people with a kind and generous heart yet I was privileged to witness in my earlier years in the seventies how it almost seems you want nothing to do with God. How you will drop us and mum in church and come back to pick us up and wait patiently even when the service is almost the whole day to bring us back home. Such patience and love for your own and reverence for God even though you did not acknowledge Him then is not lost on a growing child like me.
I also witnessed when a man with full conviction of his belief in God took up the mantle to serve, I observed how you serve with passion helping people along the way, and you did not look back. That sir, made a great impression on me as your son. As all humanity is flawed, you did not rely on your own ability but chose to put your trust and hope in Jesus. That I know and I am confident had an effect on people who know you and influenced how your children relate to God now.
I understand that I donât have a choice in you being my father neither do you have in me being your son, but if I am allowed to choose looking at my life with you. I will choose you over and over again sharing the joy, laughter, sad times, in times of plenty and in lack. To me, you are the best of the fathers, there can never be any like you.
Goodbye Daddy.
Martin Oriakhi, Son
September 10, 2025, 11:58 am
Daddy, Pa Anthony Oriakhi, My second Father
I thank God and thank both you and mummy for welcoming me with open arms.
As I'm typng I suddenly remembered the phone call... Martin ringing to introduce me to you, so many moons ago. You both accepted me straight away and showered prayers over us, welcoming me straight into the fold.
Over these past 30 years, you have been a strong, gentle, calm, welcoming, presence in our lives and we are eternally greatful.
It's a marvel that my dad followed you two days later... but as Mummy Oriakhi said, 'to continue your friendship in heaven'. That's what gives us strength, knowing you both are resting in The Bosom of the Lord.
Adieu Daddy & Grandpa, till we meet again, at Jesus' feet.
You'll always be in our hearts -
Love from your daughter (in-law) and your grandchildren ISN
Elizabeth Oriakhi , Daughter-in-law
September 10, 2025, 4:22 am
Death is inevitable, at one point we must all take a permanent rest (Hebrews 9:27 - And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment). My Dad passed away in July 2025 just days after his birthday, one cannot but wonders if more could have being done to prolong his time with us. Even though we knew it was looming, I was hoping Iâd have more time to get acquainted with the idea of death and what it means for those of us left behind (Ecclesiastes 8:8 - No one has power over the spirit to retain the spirit, And no one has power in the day of death. There is no release from that warâŚ..)
My dad embraced the Lord most of his life and fulfilled his ambition and obligation as a Christian of nurturing his children in the way of the Lord. I know him as a stay at home father after work, we always look forward to his coming back home from work and normally comes home bearing gift for everyone including our friends if we were at my place. He enjoys our presence and the pleasure of being with us. He buys different board and video games for us, he also enjoys playing the game with us in his free time. Well past his retirement he continue to be a father that bears gift. While growing up, he was our reliable cash point. My dad was always prepared for an emergency as such makes provision for emergency cash at home. Dad, you are such an accommodating, considerate and responsible father. You are also a very smart man and never shy of hard work.
While I hope you never have to experience such a life-altering loss, the truth is, we all will. Death is a part of life. And once it strikes someone you so dearly love, your existence will never be the same.
My dear dad, I will miss you every day for the rest of my life. I will miss your presence, your guidance, and your love.
Thank you for being there when I needed you most. Your memory will be a blessing to me always, and your legacy will continue to inspire me to be the best version of myself.
Rest in peace, dear dad. Your strength and resilience will never be forgotten.
Walter Oriakhi, Son
September 13, 2025, 4:22 am
My Dad, My Inspiration, My Mentor
I am still trying to come to terms with the reality that you have left.
But I take solace in my fond memories of your warmth, your care, and your jokes.
You are irreplaceable to me as a father.
Good night, Dad. Sleep well. Till we meet again.
Thompson Oriakhi, Son
September 12, 2025, 4:22 am
Although I knew that it will happen one day, it still came as a shock. Daddy, you are a great and loving father, a man that loved his children. Thank you for teaching me to love, for strength and most importantly teaching me to have integrity. If I have to choose all over again. I will still choose you to be my father. Sleep on Daddy. We will miss you, Daddy
Doris Oriakhi-Ojo , My father
August 15, 2025, 9:14 am
Pastor Anthony Oriakhi you're one in a million I'm grateful to God for granting me the Grace to be part of your wonderful family, you taught me so many things that will be useful to me in my life time. Daddy your no more here but I have the feeling that you're resting at the bosom of our Lord Jesus Christ till restoration day .
OJO FELIX OLATUNBOSUN , Son in-law
August 22, 2025, 1:29 pm
My beloved father, Pastor Anthony Godwin Oriakhi (JP), lived for 92 blessed years, and in that time, he touched many lives. He was loving, caring, and compassionate, always ready to console, help, and give. His joy was constant, and he never stopped giving thanks to God.
One thing i will always remember, whenever he preached, he would celebrate his own Thanksgiving. He taught me that every day is a reason to be grateful and that life is best lived in service to God and others.
One of his favourite songs was âE yo nânu Oluwa e yo, eyin tokan re se dede, Eyin to ti yan Oluwa . . .
Daddy, your life was a message of faith, love, and generosity. Though we will miss you deeply, we know you have entered your eternal rest. Rest on Daddy.
I am positive that his words to us is "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith." â 2 Timothy 4:7
Susana Oriakhi Adeyanju, Daughter
September 8, 2025, 4:22 am
Papa was a kind, caring and extremely patience man. I neither experienced nor witnessed his anger in the last 20 years that I got to know him. He lived a fulfilled life and left good legacy for his children and others to follow.
Rest in peace Daddy.
Muyiwa Adeyanju, Son-in-law
September 8, 2025, 4:22 am
My dad was a kind and loving man. He was always patient with me, quick to forgive, and gentle in his guidance. He never raised his voice, but he always showed me the right way with love. Everything he did came from wanting the best for me, and I will always be grateful for the father he was. Truly miss you dad.
Alfred, Loving son
August 13, 2025, 12:23 pm
To my amazing father-in-law,
Your love, guidance, and unwavering support has touched our lives.
You will be in our hearts forever.
Esther Oriakhi, Daughter in-law
September 14, 2025, 5:34 am
Tribute to My Grandfather
I cherish the times I spent with you. I remember our trips to Zaria when you'd come back with goodies for us. Your hands are never empty. You always pampered us, took care of us, and stood up for us. You'd say, "Leave them, they're small children, they're still growing." You were always nice, loving, and caring. You'd call to check up on us, listened to us, be there for us, and supported us. You were âthe perfect granddadâ.
As time went by, you started forgetting little things, you weren't as friendly as before, and got angry sometimes. But even that was cute because it was just the aging process. You are still the best granddad I ever had.
I wanted to finish school, and tell you that your granddaughter is a graduate. But things didn't turn out that way. I really miss you, and love you. You had this way of spreading joy and love to everyone around you. I know you're with God in heaven, watching over us.
I'll forever love you, and you'll forever be in my heart. I'll always remember you.
Elizabeth Oluwapelumi Adeyanju, Granddaughter
September 8, 2025, 4:22 am
Grandpa was a man of wisdom, kindness, and strength. He taught us valuable lessons through his words and his actions. His love for his family was deep, and his legacy will forever live in our hearts.
Abimbola Eunice Adeyanju, Granddaughter
September 8, 2025, 4:22 am
Huunm, where do I start from? I knew Elder Oriakhi as fondly called when my father Pastor S O A Adeleye was posted to zaria as the district superintendent of Christ Apostolic Church in 1983-1987.
Elder & Mrs Oriakhi accepted my family as theirs. I remember how we used to visit them in their house and mummy will host by cooking delicious meal for us.
Baba Oriakhi worked hand in hand with my father as an elder in no 1/7 William str, sabongari, Zaria.
Baba was a true practising Christian per excellent. He understands the word and practices it to the letter.
He will be greatly missed
Mrs Oluwole-owoola Christiana Olufunke (nee Adeleye), One of His many daughters
August 15, 2025, 9:38 am
I miss him and MAY HIS SOUL R.I.P.P đŻď¸đŻď¸đŻď¸
Abayomi Babatunde Dickson , Grandpa
August 15, 2025, 9:44 am
Sweet is the death of the Righteous
Daddy Oriakhi was a very kind man. Our path crossed in the early 80s, and I remained connected to his family since then
Daddy lived an exemplary life with indelible impacts. He touched many lives and lifted many homes economically while he was in charge of PZ Zaria particularly during the scarcity of essential commodities in the 80s. The members of CAC Zaria benefited significantly during his period in PZ Zaria
As a tradition Daddy hosted the church community annually in his home , mainly to appreciate God but also in the spirit of his generosity. He , was active in all Church developmental projects, generous giving to the work of God and also to the less privileged
.
He will be greatly missed. May his soul rest with the Lord until the resurrection morning..
Sleep on Daddy
Bro OYE
OYE ORIMOLOYE , Church relationship
August 15, 2025, 1:14 pm
Tribute to my uncle,I celebrate the life of a remarkable man Pastor Anthony Oriakhi, a mentor, a teacher and a pillar, A man with a good heart who cares about people, and also a prayer warrior,you have gone, we will miss you, keep resting uncle
Nene Onyeacholam , Niece
August 15, 2025, 5:09 pm
In Loving Memory of Pastor Anthony Oriakhi (Baba Martin)
A Life of Service, Love, and Quiet Strength
Today we celebrate the remarkable life of Pastor Anthony Oriakhi, affectionately known as Baba Martin, who at 92 years old has peacefully returned to his Creator. As the last of the original Oriakhi family members, his passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will forever illuminate our hearts.
For decades, Baba Martin served as a faithful shepherd to his congregation, embodying the quiet strength and focused dedication that defined his character. Though soft-spoken, his actions spoke volumes about the depth of his faith and his unwavering commitment to serving others. He believed deeply in helping anyone who approached him for assistance, never turning away a soul in need.
As my late mother's immediate brother, Baba Martin was more than an uncleâhe was a guardian angel who watched over our family with consistent love and care. I will forever cherish his thoughtful generosity, particularly how he would provide me with white short trouser materialâsix yards every Decemberâthroughout my five years of secondary education. He did this without my asking, anticipating my needs with the wisdom and foresight that came from a heart full of love.
I remember visiting him thirty years ago, in Zaria, during my one-month sports coaching with the Nigerian Army. Both he and his dear wife welcomed me with such warmth and hospitality that I felt truly at home. Even after their relocation to Lagos, Baba Martin maintained our precious connection through regular phone conversations. Without fail, before discussing anything else, he would always ask about my mother and the entire familyâa testament to his enduring love and concern for all of us.
Baba Martin was a peacemaker in the truest sense, believing firmly in the peaceful resolution of any matter that arose. His gentle approach to conflict and his wisdom in bringing harmony to difficult situations reflected his deep spiritual foundation and pastoral heart.
As we bid farewell to this gentle giant of faith, we take comfort in knowing that Baba Martin has joined our beloved family members who went before him. We can almost hear him now, sharing our greetings with the late members of the big Oriakhi family in that heavenly reunion.
Dear Baba Martin, Brother Anthony, you have completed your earthly journey and passed on to our Almighty Creator. We ask that you continue to watch over our family here on earth as you have always done. Your legacy of quiet service, generous love, and peaceful wisdom will guide us until that glorious resurrection morning when we shall meet again.
Rest in perfect peace, beloved uncle, pastor, and patriarch. Your race is finished, your faith kept, and your crown awaits. Until the resurrection time, we carry your memory in our hearts and your example in our lives.
Stephen Onyeacholam
Stephen Onyeacholam on behalf of Onyeacholam Family , Uncle
August 15, 2025, 11:01 pm
I have many fond memories of Daddy when I was in ABU Zaria. He was so easy going and very hospitable.
Olu Ogunbamowo, Friend of the Family
August 16, 2025, 6:36 pm
A great man has left us. Pa Oriakhi will be remembered as a very generous man. He took in many children (I am one of them) into his house and looked after us like his own. He made sure we were well looked after. He is a rare gem. Rest in peace Dad.
Olaseinde Eletu,
September 4, 2025, 9:21 am
Papa was a Man of Love & Peace.Highly Accommodating.
Sunday Oluwasemire , Friend of the Family
September 18, 2025, 9:39 am
To GrandDad,
I will miss you, thank you for being a light in my life. You will always be a diamond in the sky, even though you aren't here I will always be thinking of you, thank you for bringing joy and happiness to my life.
I will miss you, you will always shine
Love from your Granddaughter Iyanu
Iyanu , Granddaughter
September 21, 2025, 5:02 pm
To Grandad, thank you for being a light to the world, even though you aren't here your light will shine, thank you for being a diamond in the sky, thank you for bringing joy and laughter.
I will miss you,
Love from your granddaughter
Iyanu
Iyanu , Granddaughter
September 21, 2025, 5:26 pm
Sir! Your dedication to helping others was a light in my live, and I will always cherish the moments we shared as a young Elder to you. I am grateful for your wisdom and your generous heart, which will stay with me always. May your spirit live on in our hearts.
Your words inspired countless people, and your enduring legacy will continue to resonate. We will remember your vision and the positive change you brought to Christ Apostolic Church Zaria DCC. Gone but never forgotten.
May your gentle soul rest in peace Sir.
Ogundipe, David Bode [JP], Son and mentee
September 24, 2025, 9:43 am
A wonderful, pleasant & gentle daddy. He was the father who introduced kids in our hood ( neighbors) at Obalende to snacks taste as on daily basis he would come back home with different snack & shared among us,so everyone of us was always awaiting his daily arrival from work seriously,he was my parents' sibling,our own father,uncle who was representing our parents,baba & iya 'beta everywhere that need be. His death is a greatly an irreplaceable loss to my siblings & i,so therefore we wish him fridaus aljanat! Wonderful FELLOW, Rest on Papa, Adieu!
Daudu Maimunat Olaide Ayoka,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Rest in perfect peace
Mrs. Priscilla Oriakhi ,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
He was a man of dignity.
Justice, Neighbor
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Baba is a real man of God
Evangelist Adebayo Kayode Joseph,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Adieu Papa. Till we meet again
Taofik Yusuf ,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Grandpa, Man of peace
Alaga R. M ,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
He was a man who lived a life of service
Baba Abigail,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
He lived a life worth praising God for
Olorundare S. O ,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Neighbor, Rest in peace
Mrs. Adegbite,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
He was a great man
Mrs. Otugade,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
His character is worth emulating
Mrs. Ojuolape Alice,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Man of faith and discipline
Mr. Ojuolape Monday,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
He is indeed a man of God
Evangelist Micheal,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Papa, sun re o
Pastor and Pastor Mrs. Durojaiye,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Rest in perfect peace
Pastor M. D Adebanjo ,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
He was the best father and a caring one
Mrs. Amaka Lawal ,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm
Rest in the bosom of our Lord Jesus
Amoro Kehinde,
August 23, 2025, 1:44 pm