Oyo: Orile-Igbon Stands Still as Oba Alao’s Mother  Gets a Grand Farewell

Orile-Igbon, a historic town in Surulere Local Government Area of Oyo State, came to a standstill on Thursday as dignitaries, traditional rulers, politicians, captains of industry, and well-wishers, among others gathered to bid farewell to Yeye Oba Margaret Oyeronke Alao, the mother of Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Olushola Alao, and Vice Chairman of the Oyo State Council of Obas and Chiefs.

The late matriarch, who passed away on November 15, 2024, at the age of 81, was celebrated for her remarkable life, unwavering faith, and devotion to family and community.

A Fitting Tribute to a Life Well Lived

The funeral service, held at Majesty Natural Resort, Orile-Igbon, was an emotional yet grand occasion that saw an outpouring of love and respect from family, friends, and dignitaries from across Nigeria.

Delivering a powerful sermon, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Senior Pastor of Trinity House, Lagos, urged attendees to reflect on the brevity of life and the importance of spiritual fulfillment.

“What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world yet loses his soul? Everything we acquire on earth, we will leave behind. The most important thing is to make it to heaven.”

He described Mama Alao as a devout Christian, a dedicated mother, and a woman who instilled strong moral values in her children, adding that her legacy of faith and love will endure.

Dignitaries Pay Glowing Tributes

The funeral attracted an array of top personalities, each sharing heartfelt tributes to the departed matriarch.

Prince Dapo Abiodun (Governor, Ogun State):

“Mama was an entrepreneur with a humble beginning, trading between Nigeria and Ghana. She was a polyglot who spoke English, Hausa, Yoruba, and Ghanaian dialects fluently. Despite her limited formal education, she raised a successful family. Her legacy speaks for itself.”

Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Governor, Lagos State, represented by Chief of Staff, Tayo Ayinde):

“Mama Alao was a devoted Christian, a pillar of strength in her family, and a source of wisdom. Her impact will forever be cherished.”

Olugbon’s Emotional Eulogy

For Oba Francis Olushola Alao, his mother’s passing was a deeply personal loss. In his tribute, he described her as a disciplinarian, a hardworking woman, and a devoted wife who stood by her husband through thick and thin.

“She was a great mother who ensured that her children turned out well. She was never rigid but always courageous, strong-willed, and ready to face life’s challenges head-on.”

He also praised her unique fashion sense, recalling how she always coordinated her outfits with elegance and style.

Olori Alao’s Tribute: A Bond Beyond Words

In her emotional message, Olori Olushola Adedoyin Alao, wife of the Olugbon, reflected on the close relationship she shared with her mother-in-law.

“She loved her children unconditionally, especially Brother Femi and Kabiyesi. Whenever we spoke, she would reminisce about their childhood mischief, always defending them. She was a loving and caring mother, full of wisdom and patience.”

King Sunny Ade Serenades the Audience

The grand farewell was not just about solemn reflections; it was also a celebration of a life well lived. Music legend King Sunny Ade took to the stage, lifting the spirits of guests with his timeless juju tunes, turning the event into a blend of mourning and joyful remembrance.

A Gathering of Nigeria’s Elite

The funeral drew an impressive lineup of dignitaries, including:

Engr. Seyi Makinde, Governor, Oyo State, Dauda Lawal, Governor, Zamfara State, Kayode Alabi, Deputy Governor, Kwara State, Senator Yunus Akintunde (Oyo Central Senatorial District), Senator Ajagunla Olubiyi Fadeyi (Osun Central Senatorial District, Engr. Aderemi Oseni, the Chairman, House Committee on FERMA and member representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, Speaker, Oyo State House of Assembly, Chief Lere Paimo (Veteran Nollywood Actor), and a Business Mogul, Dr. Tunde Ayeni,

Others are former First Ladies: Mrs. Florence Ajimobi (Oyo), Dame Abimbola Fashola (Lagos), Mrs. Toyin Saraki (Kwara), Mrs. Funso Amosun (Ogun), Minister for Power,  Bayo Adelabu, Special Adviser on Public Communication and Orientation, Sunday Dare, Madam Esther Ajayi,  Iyalaje Oodua, Yeye Toyin Lolade,
Major Gen. Dayo Olupoki, General Dayo Owonibi, Eletu Odibo, and Chief Waheed Gbadamosi

Also in attendance were traditional rulers, state lawmakers, and top business leaders.

Final Resting Place

As Yeye Oba Margaret Alao was laid to rest, her family, friends, and well-wishers bade a tearful goodbye, cherishing her legacy of love, sacrifice, and faith.