The Olowu of Owu Kingdom in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Oba (Professor) Saka Adelola Matemilola has lost his mother.
It was gathered that Alhaja Alirat Ayinke Matemilola (Née Bolaji), died in the early hours of Sunday at 81.
In a statement signed by Chief Dr Abiodun Oladimeji Lasile the Orunto Owu Kingdom, Abeokuta said Alhaja Matemilola died after a brief illness.
“The Owu Kingdom in Abeokuta has announced the passage of the mother of Olowu of Owu in Abeokuta Alhaja Aliratu Adunni Matemilola We give all thanks to God, the merciful and magnificent. The mother of our monarch slept in the Lord at 81years, after a brief illness.
“We the Owu people all over the world condole HRM Oba Prof Saka Adelola Matemilola FNSE, Oluyalo Otileta VII Olowu of Owu Kingdom Abeokuta, on the transition to his dear mother, iya Oba and matriarch of Bolaji family.
“Alhaja Aliratu Adunni Matemilola was born 1943 in Abiola Village, to Chief Kasali Bolaji Abiola of Ago-Ika, Gbágùrá in Abeokuta and Mrs Raliat Bolaji of Labuta Compound, Oke Egunya, Owu Abeokuta. Her father was Baale of Abiola village, Gbalefa, in current Ado Odo/Ota Local Government of Ogun State.
Her father Chief Kasali Bolaji, who was the third Baale of Abiola village, which was founded by his own father, Chief Abiola, shortly after the Ẹgba United Forces roundly defeated the Dahomey forces in the mid 1800s.
“Throughout her life, Alhaja Matemilola was a shining example of kindness, compassion, and strength. As a successful trader, loving mother, and dutiful wife, she touched countless lives with her warmth and generosity. Her commitment to transparency and truthfulness inspired all who knew her.
“She was survived by several children, grandchildren, great grandchildren, sister, brothers, in-laws and families.
“We extend our deepest condolences to HRM Oba Prof Saka Adelola Matemilola and the entire Bolaji, and Matemilola families during this difficult time. May Allah grant Alhaja Matemilola’s soul eternal peace and admit her into Aljannah Firdaus. Aamiin.