Abiodun Constitutes Committee For State Burial Of Former Ogun First Lady
About The Author
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the constitution of a committee to organise a befitting state burial for the former First Lady of the state, Chief Mrs. Lucia Onabanjo.
The committee is to be chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi. Other members include the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government Area, Mr Dare Alebiosu, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mr Dapo Okubadejo.
Governor Abiodun made the announcement on Thursday during a condolence visit to the Onabanjo family in Ijebu-Ode, following the passing of the former First Lady.
Describing the late Mrs Onabanjo as an exemplary woman, the governor said she used her privileged position to render selfless service to God and humanity. He added that the Ogun State Government would be fully involved in ensuring that she receives a dignified and well-deserved burial, in recognition of her status as the wife of a former governor of the state, Chief Bisi Onabanjo.
“Mama lived for 100 years and would have been 101 this year. She lived a ripe and fulfilled life, leaving behind legacies of impact that call for the celebration of a well-lived, purposeful and meaningful existence,” the governor said.
He noted that her late husband was a renowned journalist and an outstanding governor who established landmark institutions such as Ogun State Television and Olabisi Onabanjo University, among others.
Governor Abiodun also paid tribute to Mrs Onabanjo’s personal achievements, describing her as a trained teacher, a supportive wife who travelled extensively with her husband, a devoted homemaker, a loving mother, and an exemplary First Lady.
“Though we mourn the departure of a great woman, a titan, a former First Lady, and an industrious daughter of Ijebu land and Ogun State, we should be grateful that she lived a life worthy of emulation,” he added.
The governor urged Nigerians to live lives of positive impact, noting that death is inevitable regardless of age.
“No matter how long a man lives on earth, death is certain. It is only a question of when God will call us home,” he said.
While acknowledging that Mrs Onabanjo lived to a ripe age, Governor Abiodun described her death as a great loss not only to her family but also to Ogun State and the nation. He prayed for the repose of her soul and urged the family to take comfort in the honourable life she lived.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Barrister Bukola Onabanjo recounted the events surrounding her mother’s final moments and expressed gratitude for the values and godly upbringing she instilled in her children. She also thanked Governor Abiodun, the Ogun State Government, and the people of the state for their support and solidarity.
Late Chief Mrs Lucia Onabanjo was born on October 26, 1925, and passed away on January 12, 2026.
