“impactful life is what matters and she lived it”. -Venerable Agun
By: George C. Ozalla
It was indeed an atmosphere of deep reflection about mystery of life and death itself. And of course, great impactful deeds of late Associate Professor of Law; Oluwabunmi Hope Anike Lar, who passed on to glory five years ago, at the age of 45.
Family members, in-laws, friends, relatives, colleagues, associates, lecturers, and benefactors of late Bunmi gathered in Abuja to pray for continuous repose of her gentle and generous soul; as well as, use the occasion to cherish her fond memories.
The memorial service/thanksgiving which took place at St Mathew Anglican Church, Maitama District, Abuja on Wednesday 5th February, 2025 commenced with processional hymn, introductory sentence, praise and worship. Bible reading taken from Revelation 21 verses 1-8 was read by one of late Bunmi’s daughters; Miss Nannyi Cephas Lar.
Venerable George Agun, during the short sermon he delivered; clearly emphasized that what matters most is positive impacts made in the lives of others while we are still alive.
“Nothing that will make any mortal to live forever, death is a path of mortality, it’s a transitory path, death is a pathway for another life”. Agun reiterated.
Stressing further; he quoted book of proverbs chapter 10 verse 7, “memory of the righteous is blessed, but that of the wicked man is cursed”.
In conclusion, Ven. Agun stated that our work with God matters most; urging everyone to emulate life of selfless service and impact such as late Bunmi’s, whom he expressed joy that she was being remembered, honoured and celebrated today after five years of her transition- primarily because of her good works and many lives she touched, “everyone are still bearing testimonies of her impact, wise counsel, support, guidance and generosity”, he stated.
High points of the event were presentation of posthumous Award and cash gift to late Bunmi by International Humanitarian Law Association, in recognition of Bunmi’s great contributions to the Association.
The posthumous Award was received on behalf of the family by her daughter; Nannyi who expressed joy and gratitude to the Association for still remembering and standing by the family regardless of the fact that her mother has transited. She described her mother as a godly and good woman with a large heart, who wants to see everyone around her happy.
Earlier, speaking while presenting the Award, Mr Clement Osuya, described late Bunmi as a trailblazer, and an extraordinary human being full of immense kindness, support and compassion- noting that her great initiative and contributions to both humanity and the association will never be forgotten”. Osuya enjoined the children: Nannyi and Nanfe to continue to uphold the worthy legacy of their late mother and remain focused to make her proud wherever they are.
Different touching testimonies of late Bunmi’s generosity and award of scholarships were recounted.
There was a particular account of her sole sponsorship of law program competition for law students; which her university would have missed due to paucity of fund and delays, but for Bunmi’s timely personal financial intervention which made it possible for the students to make the trip and eventually won the competition!
Mr Matthew Gofree of International Law Department; Adekunle Ajasin University, Ondo State spoke about how Dr Oluwabunmi Lar literally mentored him into International Humanitarian Law and Jurisprudence.
Prayer for the family was said at the alter by the officiating priests after thanksgiving procession, group photographs and guests were entertained.
Thereafter, a short journey to the Brigade of Guards Military Cemetery, Abuja was embarked on, upon arrival- another prayer was equally said for late Bunmi at her grave side and some of her fond memories were comically relived amidst smiles and laughters.
Chief (Mrs) Tinu Alade-Abiola recounted how specially gifted Bunmi was and how she was doing everything so fast as if she knew her sojourn on earth will not be too long. She described her late beloved daughter as a shining light and above all, very godly- who became born again Christian in 1992.
Continuing in her tribute, Mrs Alade-Abiola stated, “I shall continue to thank God for giving me Oluwabunmi in the first place. I remember the vivacious spirit that she has, a light that shone brightly in our lives and the lives of so many others. She was a happy child and an even brighter adult. From a young age, Oluwabunmi exhibited a remarkable drive and an infectious enthusiasm that inspired everyone around her. She was not only hard-working; she was relentless in her pursuit of her dreams. Whether it was her academic achievements, her career aspirations, or her dedication to her family, she approached every endeavour with passion and commitment”.
Bunmi’s husband, Arc. Cephas Lar described her late wife as, “a loving mother and was love in its purest form. “Your sacrifices, your guidance, and your endless devotion shaped us into who we are today. Even though you are no longer here with us physically, your spirit lives on in everything we do”. he continued.
Some of the dignitaries that attended the memorable event include: Ambassador (Prof.) Mary Lar, Mrs Esther Bali, Rt Hon. Beni Lar, Engr John Obiyan, Rtd CG Nigeria Fire Service, Michael Zuokumor DIG Rtd, Prince Kayode Arimoro, Lady Nwanaka, Prince Ade Haastrup, Mr Israel Adeniyi Omoniyi, Mr Ibitayo Amu, Barr. Asonibare Dayo, Anu Alli Balogun, Mr Samson Kerebo, Prince Olisa Eze, Prince Onyeka Eze, Mr Clement Osuya: Secretary General International Law Association, Prof Benedicta Daudu, Barr. Wale Olutekunbi, Barr. Johnson Omede, Mrs Chinwe Obaji: former Minister of Education and her husband, Mr Sam Obaji, Mr and Mrs Sam Egbra, Mr Dele Famose, Otunba Hayes Obinna-Uzor,Ven. Ephraim Akanya: Dean to the Primate Church of All Nigeria Anglican Communion, Evangelist Chika Ibenye, Members of Sapphire Group of St Mathew Anglican Church Maitama District, Abuja. Late Bunmi’s siblings: Kunle, Temi and Mikhail.
Others are: Judith Moneke, Elizabeth Egbra, Mrs Jaja Nwachukwu, Suzie Suh, Tosin Adeniran, John, Dorcas Quartey, Ofonime Akpasom, Olayinka Afolabi, Mr & Mrs Pate, Rit Iwooh, Mrs Giles, Amoge Atama and a host of others.
