Palace of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Saliu Akanmu Adetunji, has officially announced the death of the first wife of the monarch, Olori Kudirah Adetunji.
In a statement sent to DAILY POST on Thursday by Director, Media and Public Affairs to the monarch, Adeola Oloko, the palace said Olori Adetunji who is survived by her husband, the Olubadan and many children and grand children would be buried at the palace by 4.pm today.
Oloko in the press statement said: “Olori Kudirat Aduke Adetunji, one of the wives of Kabiyesi Olubadan is dead.
“Aged 71, she passed away in the early hours of today, Thursday 21st December, 2017.
“Until her death, she was the Iyaloja of Bolade, Oshodi Market, Lagos.
“She will be burried today at the Popoyemoja, Ibadan palace of Olubadan of Ibadanland at 4.00pm according to muslim rites.
“She is survived by her husband, many children and grand-children. May her gentle soul rest in peace. Amen”.
Governor Abiola Ajimobi of Oyo State while commiserating with the monarch, described the death as unfortunate and disheartening.
Ajimobi in a statement made available to DAILY POST by his Special Adviser, Communication and Strategy, Mr. Yomi Layinka, on Thursday, said that he received the sad news with shock and disbelief.
He described the incident as a big loss, not only to the Olubadan but also to the entire people of the ancient city.
He said “I am greatly saddened by the passing away of Olori Kudirah. It is very unfortunate and disheartening, especially because we were still together with Kabiyesi and the royal retinue at the Chief of Army Staff conference, held in Ibadan, last week”.
“Her death is indeed a big loss, not only to our father, the Olubadan, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Saliu Adetunji, but also, to the entire people of Ibadanland. May the Almighty grant Kabiyesi, Mama’s children and loved ones the fortitude to bear this great loss.
“I enjoin the good people of Oyo State to join me in praying for the repose of her gentle soul and may Allah grant her the highest place in Jannah.”
Similarly, Minister of Communications, Barrister Adebayo Shittu while mourning with the Olubadan described the death as a big blow not only to the monarch but the entire residents of Ibadanland.
Shittu, in a statement by one of his aides, Toyese Oladejo, described the deceased as a virtuous woman had contributed immensely to the success of the reign of the first class monarch over the years.
He, however, admonished the Olubadan and the entire Adetunji dynasty to take solace in the exemplary lifestyle of the departed Oloori.
Shittu prayed to Almighty Allah to bless the deceased Aljanat Firdaous and give the family and the entire people of Ibadanland the fortitude to bear the heavy loss.
Agbaakin Adebayo Shittu further prayed for more sound health for the Olubadan and his entire family.
