Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke mourned the passing of Ruth Elton, a British-born Nigerian reputed to be the country’s oldest missionary.
The announcement of Elton’s death was contained in a Sunday statement signed and released by Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, obtained in Osogbo.
Adeleke, in the condolence message, expressed sadness over Elton’s death, describing her life as one of service and significant contributions to humanity.
The governor noted Elton’s decades-long dedication to building faith and empowering society.
He recalled that “Since arriving in Nigeria with her father, Granville Elton, in 1937, Elton dedicated herself to bridging gaps in gospel ministry and combating medical emergencies through grassroots health initiatives.”
Adeleke acknowledged Elton’s decision to renounce her British citizenship for Nigerian citizenship, highlighting her faith in the country and deep love for its people and cultures.
“I am devastated by the news of Ruth Elton’s passing, widely acknowledged as the oldest missionary to Nigeria. Although she passed away at the ripe age of 91, knowing her contributions over the years, I cannot help but feel the pain of such a loss,” Governor Adeleke said in a condolence message.
“From 1937, when she arrived in Nigeria with her father, Granville Elton, Ruth Elton served the Nigerian people with unfailing dedication, contributing not just to the spread of the gospel but also joining efforts to fight many health scourges in communities.”
“Her absence will be a heavy burden to us in Osun, where she breathed her last, but we will be consoled by the legacy of her impact and the everlasting honour that comes with her contributions to society,” Adeleke said.
He prayed for the repose of Ruth Elton’s soul and urged the community of faithfuls she left behind to be guided by her life of relentless service to humanity, continuing to honour her name by building on her works, which revolved around the people.
