BY NED GAGAHE
The Sepi community in Gao Bugotu Constituency, Isabel Province, on Friday, January 9, 2025 marked 111 years since the passing of the province’s early Anglican deacon, the late Deacon Ellison Gito, a respected traditional and spiritual leader whose legacy continues to shape generations.
The commemoration was held at St Alban’s Church, and was observed under the theme: “The person who seeks God’s Kingdom seeks God’s rule in his life” (Matthew 6:33).
The program featured a commemoration church service, a tribal parade, official speeches, and a blessing ceremony at the gravesite.
Speaking during the event, Area Paramount Chief (Kokolo Thaba) Chief Titus Vuru highlighted the life, leadership, and faith of Deacon Gito, who died on 9 January 1915.
Although his exact date of birth is unknown, Deacon Gito is believed to have been born in the mid to late 1800s, during the era of heathenism and headhunting.
“Today marks another important occasion as we gather to commemorate and remember the life of the late Deacon Ellison Gito, one of the most prominent traditional and spiritual leaders of Bugotu in Isabel Province,” Chief Vuru said.
“From generation to generation, our people have continued to honour his life, leadership, and Christian service.”
Historical accounts show that Deacon Gito was born at Liukana near Kamaru and was raised at the sacred fortress of his father, the late Great Chief Manlaws Soga—the last great Bugotu head-hunter and later the first Bugotu Christian Paramount Chief.
In 1889, Great Chief Manlaws Soga and his wife, Auboro Anika Jabo, together with more than 170 people, were baptised and converted to Christianity.
Following their conversion, they relocated to Sepi and Laudari on Vitora Island, where peace and harmony eventually prevailed. These accounts were documented by Dr Hendry Welchman.
Chief Vuru said Deacon Gito, a member of the Thogokama lineage of Jivi Vitu, accompanied his father on peace missions across Bugotu and later emerged as a key leader alongside his brother, Chief Lonsdale Bojohofi.
According to Dr Welchman, Deacon Gito was trained and educated under his guidance and was ordained as a deacon at Bungana in 1911.
He was described as intellectually and spiritually gifted, with great promise in gospel work.
Sadly, his ministry was cut short when he succumbed to tuberculosis and passed away on 9 January 1915.
Despite his early death, historians say his wisdom, humility, and Christian leadership left a lasting impact on Bugotu and Isabel Province.
“As a forefather to many of us today, Deacon Ellison Gito was a man of vision, integrity, and strong Christian principles,” Chief Vuru said.
The annual commemoration held every 9 January continues to honour his life, service, and enduring spiritual legacy.
Photo credit: Johnson Bako
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