BY LAW IBITOYE
On Friday, 27th June 2025, the bobbling town, Ilupeju-Ekiti witnessed influx of dignitaries as a virtuous and pretty woman, Chief (Mrs.) Abigail Adunbi Oriowo, was laid to rest at the age of 85. The funeral, organized by her son, Engineer Olajide Oriowo (JP) and family members was not just a farewell but a celebration of a life well spent in service to humanity, and God.
The funeral service was held at Saint John’s Anglican Church, Ilupeju-Ekiti, In a sermon titled “Death is not an Emergency, Prepare for It,” the presiding priest, Venerable Adedeji admonished the congregation in ( Heb 9: 27 and Matt 24: 44) emphasized the need for every believer to live in constant readiness for the last day on this sinful earth, just as Christ prepared Himself and fulfilled His mission.
He charged the congregation to obey all the dictates of Christ, emulate His obedience, and contribute positively to society as they advanced in age .
While paying tribute to the late matriarch, the priest described Chief (Mrs.) Abigail Oriowo as a woman of rare virtue, deeply rooted in Christian faith and charity. He extolled her for a lifetime of service to the masses, unwavering commitment to the Church of God, and generosity towards men of God. Her devotion, he noted, was not in word alone but in active support, love, and care to her community and all who crossed her path.
The funeral reception held at Ibudun Hall, Ilupeju-Ekiti, filled to capacity by sympathizers and well-wishers. It was a gathering of the high and mighty—captains of industries, seasoned politicians, royal fathers, and distinguished personalities from all works of life honour the memory of a woman whose life had impacted many.
The atmosphere transformed into a celebration as popular gospel musician, Yinka Ayefele, took the stage. With his signature blend of uplifting lyrics and energetic beats, Ayefele lit up the event with electrifying performances that kept the crowd on their feet, shaking body, reconnect with old friends and making new ones.
Engineer Olajide Oriowo (JP), described his mother as an angel sent by God who was gifted to proffer solutions to the family’s problems. You were a loving and caring mother that will be sorely missed by those that had relationship with her. My mum passing left a deep void, her legacy—of faith, service, and love—continues to live on in the hearts of all she inspired.Engr Oriowo declared . He expressed gratitude to those who made the funeral outing a success, prayed God to spare those she left behind to uphold his mother’s legacy.
Dignitaries at the burial outing includes: The Apeju of Ilupeju Ekiti, HRM Oba Sunday Awe Akingbade and wife, Owajumu, Oba Ogundeyi , Chairman of Ifeloju LCDA, Ilupeju Ekiti, Hon Olusola Michael Oniyelu, Engineer Tola Gbuyiro, Members of Apeju in Council, dignitaries from all works of life among others.
