Dignitaries from across Nigeria gathered in Ogbomoso on Thursday to pay their respects as the Olugbon of Orile-Igbon, Oba Francis Alao, laid his mother, Yeye Alao, to rest.
The funeral ceremony was attended by Governors Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State.
Other prominent attendees included Kwara State Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi, Senators Yunus Akintunde and Ajagunla Fadeyi, Lagos State Chief of Staff Tayo Ayinde, and former first ladies Florence Ajimobi, Abimbola Fasola, Toyin Saraki, and Funso Amosun.
In his sermon, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo of Trinity House, Lagos, emphasized the importance of faith, stating that material wealth is fleeting. “The soul of a man is more important than all the riches and treasures in this world. Everything we acquire on earth, we will leave behind. The essential thing is to make it to heaven.”
Governor Abiodun delivered a goodwill message, describing the late Yeye Alao as a loving and supportive woman who made significant contributions despite her limited formal education. “Mama had a humble beginning, trading between Nigeria and Ghana. She was an entrepreneur, fluent in English, Hausa, Yoruba, and a Ghanaian language. We give thanks to God for her life.”
Oba Francis Alao remembered his mother as a hardworking disciplinarian who ensured her children were raised well. “She was a great disciplinarian and worked tirelessly in trade to support our family while my father focused on our spiritual and moral upbringing.”
The burial ceremony featured a lively performance by Juju maestro King Sunny Ade, who entertained guests with his signature melodies. Yeye Alao passed away on November 15, 2024, at the age of 81.