The final rites and burial of Her Royal Majesty, Olori Janet Ara Adeagbo aged 87 years, the esteemed mother of HRM, Oba Dr. Adekunle Adeayo Adeagbo, ILUFEMILOYE I. Oore of Otun-Ekiti, Paramount Ruler of Mobaland and Southwest Coordinator of National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, were conducted with great dignity and reverence. The ceremonies were attended by an array of distinguished individuals who gathered to offer their condolences and celebrate the life of the beloved Olori. Her passing marked the end of an era for the Adeagbo family and the wider community of Otun-Ekiti, with all those present reflecting on her legacy of kindness, wisdom, and grace.
DIGNITARIES IN ATTENDANCE:
The event was led by her son, His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Adekunle Adeayo Adeagbo, the Oore of Otun-Ekiti, who presided over the proceedings with regal composure, even as he mourned the loss of his cherished mother. His presence underscored the significance of the event, and many high-profile guests were in attendance, showing solidarity with the Oore during this challenging period.
Among the most notable dignitaries was Chief (Mrs.) Monisade Afuye, the Deputy Governor of Ekiti State, who represented the Ekiti State government and brought a message of support and condolence from the state’s leadership. Her presence was a testament to the strong ties between the Adeagbo family and the Ekiti State government.
Also present was Dr. (Mrs.) Habibat Adubiaro, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Ekiti State, who expressed her deep condolences and offered words of comfort to the Oore and his family. The SSG’s attendance reinforced the importance of the Adeagbo family within the Ekiti community and the profound impact of Olori Janet Ara Adeagbo’s life on many.
In addition, Dr. (Mrs.) Folake Olomojobi, the Head of Service of Ekiti State, paid her respects in a particularly touching moment during the event. As a sign of cultural respect and humility, Dr. Olomojobi was seen kneeling in the presence of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adekunle Adeagbo, an act that symbolized both her reverence for the monarch and her recognition of the traditions of Otun-Ekiti. Her gesture resonated deeply with attendees, serving as a reminder of the importance of maintaining cultural customs and the values of respect and honor.
Other dignitaries at the event includes: The Elejesi of Ejesi Ife kingdom representing The Ooni of Ife, Chairman, Ekiti Council of Obas -Kings, Olojudo of Ido Ekiti, The Ologotun of Igotun Ekiti, The Obaleo of Erinmope Ekiti, The Onigogo of Igogo Ekiti, The Olosan of Isan Ekiti, The Owa Osun of Osun Ekiti, The Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti, The Elepe of Epe Ekiti, The Aroniro of Iro Ekiti, The Olufaki of Ifaki Ekiti, The Olupoti of Ipoti Ekiti, The Onira of Ira Ekiti etc.
His Royal Majesty, Oba Adeagbo, took the time to personally thank all who attended, expressing his sincere appreciation for their presence and support during such a difficult time. He paid special tribute to His Excellency, Engr. Segun Oni, the former Governor of Ekiti State, for his unwavering support and his role in honoring Olori Janet Adeagbo. The Oore’s words were heartfelt, and his acknowledgment of Engr. Oni highlighted the bonds of friendship and respect that have been nurtured over the years. In same hand the Oore received the Representative of SFG, Sen. George Akume who Presented Condolence Letter from the state House to convey message of hope to the Oore, his household and people of Otun-Ekiti.
The burial ceremonies of Her Royal Majesty, Olori Janet Ara Adeagbo, were meticulously organized to reflect the deep respect and love held for her. The rites began with a Christian Wake Keep held at the Adeagbo family residence in Ibadan. The wake, a solemn and reflective event, provided an opportunity for family members, friends, and well-wishers to gather, share fond memories of the late Olori, and offer prayers for the peaceful repose of her soul.
On the following day, a Church Service was held at Winners Chapel in Bashorun, Ibadan. The service was a profound spiritual celebration of Olori Janet Ara Adeagbo’s life, with clergy, family, and friends paying tribute to her enduring faith, her contributions to her community, and the legacy she leaves behind. Hymns were sung, prayers were offered, and the words spoken during the service resonated with those in attendance, reminding everyone of the values she embodied throughout her life.
Following the church service, the body of the late Olori was transported to Otun Ekiti, her home, where her remains were laid in state at the residence of Hon. Prince Adeagbo, allowing the community to pay their final respects. The lying-in-state was a moment of deep reflection for the people of Otun-Ekiti, who mourned the loss of a matriarch but also celebrated her life of service, kindness, and generosity.
The burial service was conducted with solemnity at the residence of Hon. Prince Adeagbo, where family, friends, and guests gathered to bid farewell to Olori Janet Ara Adeagbo. The atmosphere was filled with a mix of sadness and gratitude, as those in attendance reflected on the impact she had on so many lives. The service was a testament to her enduring influence, not only within her family but throughout the wider community.
After the burial service, a grand reception was held at the Oore’s Palace in Otun-Ekiti. The reception was a moment of collective unity, as attendees came together to celebrate the life of the late Olori. Speeches were made in her honor, and traditional music filled the air, creating a poignant but uplifting atmosphere that reflected the rich cultural heritage of the Ekiti people. The reception also allowed the community to express their support for the Oore and his family, offering comfort during their time of grief.
A LEGACY OF LOVE AND REVERENCE:
The burial ceremonies of Her Royal Majesty, Olori Janet Ara Adeagbo, were more than just a farewell—they were a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have on the lives of others. Olori Janet’s legacy of love, compassion, and dedication to her family and community was evident throughout the events. Her memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew her, and the proceedings, steeped in tradition and grace, were a fitting tribute to a life well-lived.
Fuji artiste, Saheed Osupa and his band serenaded invited guests with melodious tunes and sonorous songs.
Surrounded by family, friends, and well-wishers, the Adeagbo family found comfort in the overwhelming show of support. The dignified and carefully planned ceremonies were a testament to the deep respect and admiration for Olori Janet Ara Adeagbo, a woman whose presence will be sorely missed but whose legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
