By Fr. Anthony Adetayo

The ancient city of Ijebu-Ode was a focal point of national attention this week as the remains of Late Mrs. Lucia Onabanjo; former First Lady of Ogun State, were interred following a series of high-profile funeral rites attended by the top echelon of Nigeria’s political and religious leadership.

The three-day transition program, which commenced on February 11, 2026, culminated in a grand Requiem Mass at the St. Sebastian Catholic Cathedral, Odo Egbo, Ijebu-Ode on Friday, drawing a massive congregation of the faithful, state dignitaries, and former governors.

A State in Mourning

The funeral proceedings of Mama Onabanjo who until her death, celebrated her centenary birthday, began on Wednesday with a Service of Songs at the family residence, located at 52 Fidipote Street, Idewon. The atmosphere of solemnity deepened on Thursday, February 12, following the arrival of her body at noon. A Christian Wake held later that evening at the Adeola Odutola Hall was attended by the Executive Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun, and the Bishop of Ijebu-Ode Diocese, alongside a large contingent of priests and religious leaders.

Requiem Mass and Tributes

At the Requiem Mass on Friday, the Chief Celebrant, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, led scores of priests from within and outside the country in a final spiritual send-off. The event saw a rare gathering of Ogun State’s political titans, including Governor Dapo Abiodun and his Deputy, as well as former governors Chief Olusegun Osoba, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, and Sen. Ibikunle Amosun. Also in attendance was the matriarch of the Otedola family, Dame Doja Otedola.

In a stirring homily, Rev. Fr. David-Mary Odunsi described the late Mrs. Onabanjo as a “silent achiever” whose life was a masterclass in godliness. He urged the congregants to emulate her legacy of generosity and unwavering devotion to the things of God.

Executive Commitment

While reading the biography of the deceased, Governor Dapo Abiodun lauded Mama Onabanjo’s humility and discipline, noting that she reflected these virtues both in her public service and personal life.

In a significant gesture of honour to her memory, the Governor publicly pledged his administration’s support to ensure the completion of the new Cathedral building project before the deadline suggested by the Bishop.

A “Sermon Without Words”

The Bishop of the Diocese, Most Rev. Francis Obafemi Adesina, expressed his gratitude to the organizers and the congregation. He described Mama as a virtuous woman of a “special generation,” characterized by endurance and integrity. “Mama was always eager to receive Jesus in the Holy Eucharist,” the Bishop remarked. “She was never without her beautiful smile; her legacy was truly a sermon without words.”

Speaking on behalf of the family, Hon. Bukky Onabanjo expressed profound appreciation to the Clergy for their spiritual care of her mother. She also extended her gratitude to Governor Abiodun for his presence and support since the matriarch’s passing.

The remains of Mrs. Lucia Onabanjo were later lowered into a beautifully prepared grave beside her late husband, marking the end of a rich and profound ceremony of life.