It was a day of joy, honour, and thanksgiving in Iperu, Ogun State, as the city came alive to celebrate the 90th birthday of Chief (Mrs.) Victoria Olaitan Abiodun, the beloved mother of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
The occasion drew eminent personalities from all walks of life who gathered to rejoice with the Abiodun family and pay glowing tributes to a woman whose life embodies grace, service, and virtue.
The milestone celebration, held at St. James Anglican Church, Iperu, witnessed an impressive turnout of political leaders, traditional rulers, captains of industry, and well-wishers.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio; Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; and several state governors were also in attendance.
Among the dignitaries present were Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), and Hope Uzodinma (Imo).
Also gracing the occasion were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Ogun State Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, Senator Ibukunle Amosun, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Chief James Ibori, Senator Solomon Adeola Yayi, Senator Adams Oshiomole, former Speaker Dimeji Bankole. Royal fathers, including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, led other traditional rulers to honour Mama Abiodun.
As part of the celebrations, the Omoluabi Movement, a socio-political group rooted in good governance and community development hosted a special event in Mama Abiodun’s honour at the expansive Ajadeh Events Centre, Iperu.
The venue filled with over 10,000 members and admirers from across the state, pulsated with joy as renowned gospel-juju maestro, Dr. Yinka Ayefele (OJA), thrilled guests with soul-lifting music.
Convener of the Omoluabi Movement, Mr. Armstrong ’Tope Akintunde, described Mama Victoria Abiodun as a true matriarch, a rare gem, and a blessing to Remoland and Ogun State. Akintunde lauded her decades of nurturing values, faith, and selflessness that have shaped generations.
“It is every parent’s prayer to live long enough to see their children flourish and make them proud. Mama Abiodun has not only witnessed that but has become a living testimony of God’s faithfulness. She is one in a million, a mother to all, whose legacy of kindness and discipline continues to inspire us. We are proud to celebrate her today and always.” – Armstrong said.
Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Segun Kaka, General Coordinator of the Omoluabi Movement, emphasized that the celebration transcends family ties.
According to him, “This is not just the Abiodun family’s celebration; it is a collective thanksgiving for the life of a woman who represents the very best of our values as a people”.
The atmosphere brimmed with admiration and heartfelt prayers as guests eulogized the nonagenarian for her unwavering faith, community spirit, and commitment to humanity.
Indeed, Mama Victoria Olaitan Abiodun stands tall as a beacon of virtue, her 90 years marked by compassion, courage, and character. Her story remains an inspiration to mothers, leaders, and the younger generation across Ogun State and beyond.
– Oluseun JOSHUA, Abeokuta
