Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola was called into the ministry in 1928 at the age of 24 after a divine encounter with the voice of God at Ikeji Arakeji. At the time, he was working as a driver of a steamroller for a road construction company.
That same year, he began his ministry, and God worked mightily through him, confirming His word with outstanding miracles, notable signs, and wonders.
By 1930, his fame had spread widely, especially following his remarkable exploits during the Great Revival in Ilesa, which transformed the spiritual climate of the Western Region. The impact of this revival was felt across virtually every part of Nigeria.
Apostle Babalola became a towering figure in the Nigerian church and a leader of the Pentecostal movement in the country. His name was on the lips of both admirers and critics.
Despite his growing influence, he remained single, raising questions among his family, followers, and colleagues about why he had not considered marriage as a church leader.
Following persistent pressure from his father, Pa David Rotimi Talabi, Apostle Babalola married Dorcas on April 25, 1935. The wedding was attended by about 6,000 people, and he received gifts totaling £3, 10 shillings, and 6 pence.
The ceremony took place at the first Aladura assembly in Efon Alaaye and was officiated by Pastor David Odubanjo, Pastor J.S.B. Odusona, and Pastor Medaiyese. Dorcas was a virgin at the time of their marriage, and Babalola paid her £2 and 10 shillings, in line with Yoruba tradition.
During their marriage, Babalola fondly called his wife Mama Abiye, while she called him Baba Abiye. They settled in Efon Alaaye.
Dorcas Babalola was born on March 10, 1912, to the Fowowe family in Ilesa. Many described her as strict and sometimes aggressive, but these perceptions often overlooked the pressures she faced as the wife of a man whose life and ministry were constantly in public demand.
In the early years of their marriage, she sometimes cooked from morning till evening to feed the constant stream of visitors. Over time, others began to assist her or bring food to the home, but the lack of privacy took its toll.
Her stress was compounded by the Apostle’s demanding missionary schedule. Their sitting room was often turned into a classroom for the 47 children Babalola was sponsoring or tutoring, and Apostle Babalola himself rarely slept on his bed, often giving it up and sleeping on a camp bed or even the floor.
Babalola frequently embarked on long missionary journeys, sometimes lasting over a week. Dorcas could not accompany him due to the harsh travel conditions — long treks, late-night journeys, overloaded lorries, and the absence of basic comforts. Additionally, even in his absence, their home was always full of people.
At times, Dorcas tried to prevent him from leaving, believing he needed rest. In his absence, she occasionally took her frustration out on the children in the home, sometimes imposing compulsory fasting.
Balancing family life with ministry was a constant challenge. Babalola prioritized the call of God and church-building over personal leisure, and even a proposed church-sponsored trip to Israel never materialized. Yet, his labor continues to yield fruit to this day.
Despite these challenges, their marriage was not marked by domestic violence. They shared home responsibilities, and Babalola was vocal about his love and respect for his wife.
After Apostle Babalola’s passing in 1959, Dorcas remained in Efon Alaaye until 1962, when she relocated to Ilesa with their daughters. There, she traded in foodstuffs, particularly beans, and remained a dedicated member of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). She later became the Patroness of CAC Okesa, Ilesa.
Dorcas passed away on December 28, 1993, and was buried on January 15, 1994, behind CAC Okesa. Her funeral was attended by eminent clergymen, including Pastor Olu Alokan, Pastor D.O. Babajide, and Pastor E.H.L. Olusheye, who praised her for her motherly care, strength, and courage.
Unfortunately, misinformation and ignorance have led some to label her unfairly. This account serves to shed light on her reality — as the young wife of a man whose life was devoted to a mission far greater than himself, yet who loved and respected her until the very end.