Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, said on Sunday that the life of the late Alhaja Ayisatu Larinre Adeojo, the mother of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader, Alhaji Yekini Adeojo, deserves to be celebrated because it was a fulfilled life.
He maintained that it was time for the children and grandchildren of Mama, who died on Friday, aged 127-year-old, to rejoice and celebrate, because she left a great legacy, adding that her death has brought an opportunity to celebrate her life.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Mr. Taiwo Adisa, indicated that the governor stated these when he visited the Ibadan home of Alhaji Adeojo alongside a number of dignitaries in the state.
He said: “Officially, on behalf of the government and the people of the state, I want to greet everyone here and I can say that this is a time for celebration and joy.
“Just like Professor (Sayed Malik) said earlier, there are many things that require thanksgiving when they happen. He also said there are three major prayers which can bring good fortunes for the departed, particularly the children that such a person left behind. And you know I am indirectly one of the children Mama left behind.
“Some days ago, Mama prayed for me concerning my second term ambition, saying it shall be possible for me to actualise the dream.
“So, I greet everyone and I want to assure that the government will fully participate in whatever programme you want to put in place towards her burial and all that.”
Speaking earlier, Chairman of the State’s Pilgrims Board (Muslim Wing), Prof. Malik, who conducted a brief sermon, said that Alhaja Ayisatu Adeojo led a good life, having fulfilled the three major things the Holy Quran defines as evidence of good life.
He said that Mama impacted knowledge to others; left good children and also has a legacy of good deeds.
According to him, God does not make a covenant with anyone as to the timing of death, adding that only the Almighty determines when He is ready to take anyone home
He said that the children and the family only need to celebrate the departed matriarch, because she was one of the best creatures created by God, having provided benefits to others during her lifetime.
While thanking Governor Makinde for finding time to pay the condolence visit, Alhaji Adeojo said that Mama had premonitions of her death and left instructions on what should be done after her demise.
Those during the governor’s visit include former Governor Rashidi Ladoja, his wife, Alhaja Mutiat Ladoja; chairman, Oyo State Advisory Council, Senator Hosea Agboola; Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Olusegun Olayiwola and the Special Adviser to the governor on Strategy and Political Matters, Hon. Babatunde Oduyoye.
Others were Director-General, Oyo State Signage Agency, Hon. Temi Adibi; Deputy Director-General of the Makinde Campaign Council for the 2023 election, Barrister Adeniyi Farinto as well as the Oyo South Senatorial candidate of the PDP, Engr. Joseph Tegbe, among others.
