ICYMI: Iyalode of Ibadan dies two weeks to 94th birthday

Aminat Abiodun, the iyalode of Ibadan, Oyo state capital, died in the early hours of Saturday.

She passed away two weeks to her 94th birthday on December 24.

Abiodun was the sole female representative in the 10-member advisory council of the olubadan of Ibadan.

Following the death of her predecessor, Wuraola Akintola, Abiodun was installed as the 13th iyalode on October 19, 2007.

Abiola Ajimobi, Oyo state governor, has described the late Iyalode as a “titan” and “colossus who has made her mark in the sand of time”.

He said: “Let me on behalf of the people and government of Oyo State extend condolence to the nucleus family of Mama. By tradition and relationship, Mama was my mother. I knew mama since I was like nine years old and she was an exemplary mother, very elegant, very beautiful.

“She had presence both in character and in carriage. She epitomised mobility. She epitomised elegance and consequently became the queen of Ibadanland, if you like Queen of women if that is accepted.

“She rose through the ranks and paid her dues. She was successful in all ramifications. So for me I think it’s the passage of a titan of Colossus who has made her mark in the sand of time.

“I think for me it’s a great loss but let’s take solace in the fact that she lived well, left good children, left me, left us.”

The governor said the ancient city of Ibadan will forever remember “the irreplaceable” Abiodun who will be buried on Sunday.