SOLA FOLOWOSELE
A distinguished assembly of political leaders, traditional authorities, and community stakeholders gathered yesterday to commemorate the 12th year remembrance anniversary of the late Alhaja (Dr.) Abibatu Mogaji, a revered matriarch and influential market leader during her lifetime.
Alhaja Mogaji, the late mother of Nigeria’s current President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and grandmother to Hon. Adedamola Richard Kasunmu, the Deputy Majority Leader of the Lagos State House of Assembly, was remembered in a solemn yet grand ceremony that underscored her enduring legacy in commerce and public service.
The memorial event was organized by the current Iyaloja-General, Chief (Mrs.) Folasade Mujidat Tinubu-Ojo, and the leaders of Lagos markets.
The event held at the Blue Roof hall of LTV 8 in Lagos amidst an outpouring of tributes and reflections on the late Mogaji’s impact on market structures and socio-political development in Nigeria.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa; Lagos State Chief of Staff, Mr. Tayo Ayinde; the Secretary to the State Government, (SSG), Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; Hon. Lawal Aina-Musibau of Lagos State House of Assembly and many other disgnitaries.
The traditional institution was also represented by the White Cap Chiefs on behalf of Oba Rilwan Akiolu of Lagos. Leaders of Hausa, Igbo and other ethnic communities in Lagos, alongside prominent members of the Association of Commodity Market Men and Women of Nigeria, were also present to pay their respects.
Other notable attendees included Hon. Akeem Olamilekan Dauda (AKOD), Hon. Bisola Omisore (Omituntun), Mr. Yinka Illo; Alhaja Folasade Salako (Lady K) with her team; Hon. Ayo Adenuga, Alhaji Shakiru Abass (a.k.a Bismillahi); Comrade Seun Makinde (SM); Comrade Odunlami Dauda, Mrs. Rashidat Abass, and Mrs. Silifa Owolewa and many other well-wishers.
The ceremony featured prayers, goodwill messages, and cultural performances, celebrating the life and legacy of Alhaja Mogaji, who was widely respected for her contributions to market leadership and grassroots empowerment.
In his vote of thanks, Hon. (Prince) Adedamola Richard Kasunmu extended warm appreciation to all guests present and also seized the occasion to pray for sound health and total success for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his efforts to lead Nigeria to the promised land.
The event also coincided with the Birthday celebration of Iyaloja-General Folasade Tinubu-Ojo.