It was a solemn yet celebratory atmosphere on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, as family, friends, and well-wishers gathered at St Saviour’s Church, Hanley Road, London, to pay their last respects to Prince Gabriel Adelekan Haastrup (1938–2025).
The service, officiated by Rev. Matt Seymour, with support from Ven. Dr. Joseph Ajaefobi and Rev. Canon Tayo Falope, was marked by touching tributes and heartfelt testimonies about the life and legacy of the late Ijesa prince, described as a kind-hearted, humble, and deeply respected man.
Prince Haastrup, husband of Olori Grace Durodola Haastrup, a prominent Ijesa citizen in London and founder of the Ijesa Women Social Elites in the UK was remembered not only as a devoted family man but also as a true pillar of the Ijesa community both in Nigeria and in the diaspora.
In her moving tribute, his widow, Olori Duro, described him as “my love, my strength, my darling, always smiling and peaceful husband… a blessing to me even now that you are gone.”
She recalled their marriage in 1971, their shared journey through life, and his unwavering devotion to their children, concluding with an emotional farewell: “Rest on, my sweet Gabriel, in the bosom of our Lord Jesus. At the appointed time, we will meet again and part no more.”
Adelekan, you are my second God. For all of us you gave your name best, now the time has come for you to rest. Sleep well darling, you have earned your sleep.”
“I will miss your beautiful calming smile and those comforting hugs. But we are confident that our loss is heaven’s gain. Rest on my sweet Gabriel in the bosom of our Lord Jesus.”
Other family members also shared fond memories.
Princess Tejumade Haastrup Ogunkolade remembered him as “a very nice man” whose kindness and generosity touched her life since her youth.
I remember in 1970 he bought a big radio and cassette player for my 21st birthday. That day, we danced and listened to the news in my room with my friends the whole time.”
“I can never forget him because he was always courteous and good mannered. May his soul rest in perfect peace and God uphold the family.”
Evangelist Eunice Adebambo Haastrup Olusoga described him as “caring, loving, selfless, humble, compassionate, down-to-earth, and considerate,” He was caring, loving, selfless, humble, compassionate, down-to-earth and considerate when he was alive.”
“He always had a smile on his face during his lifetime. If it was possible to stop death from taking him away, I would have loved to keep him around because he was the only sibling of my late father.”
“We have lost a legend and a gem in the Haastrup family and in the body of Christ, but I pray the Lord keeps all the young and old ones in our family safe and healthy. Adieu sir, I know you are resting at the bosom of your Creator.” while Dare and Kayode Ojo recalled his gentle presence, humility, and ability to make everyone feel valued.
Uncle Adelekan was warm and welcoming, carried himself with quiet dignity, and never needed to raise his voice to be heard. He earned respect effortlessly.”
“A complete gentleman—thoughtful in his words, generous with his time, and always ready to extend a helping hand.”
“His absence leaves a space no one else can fill, but his spirit, kindness, and legacy will continue to live on. Rest well, Uncle. You were deeply loved and you will never be forgotten.”
His nephew, Adejumo David Haastrup, added: “He was more than an uncle, he was a source of support and encouragement. A peacemaker in the family, always smiling and never upset. A rare gem.”
“He was more than an uncle, he was a source of constant support and encouragement.”
“He was a peacemaker in the family, always smiling and never upset. What a rare gem! He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”
“Though our hearts ache with his absence, we can find comfort in the memories we shared and the love he gave. May we honour his legacy by living our lives with the same kindness, joy, and passion that he did.”
Beyond his family, Prince Haastrup’s impact extended to the larger Ijesa community. He was celebrated as “a true Ijesa icon who carried the identity of Ijesaland everywhere he went and never failed to support progress and unity.”
According to IjesaNews Publisher, OmoOba Sunday Adewusi, “We have lost a rare gem, but his legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. Rest well, Baba. Ijesaland is proud of you.”
Prince Gabriel Adelekan Haastrup is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren, and a host of relatives, friends, and associates who will forever cherish his memory.
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