It was a gathering of legal titans, political heavyweights, and community leaders on Saturday, June 27, 2026, as the historic town of Ado-Awaye stood still for the final burial ceremony of Chief (Mrs.) Alice Idowu Omoyeni Asake Oladokun, mother of a former Oyo State Deputy Governor, Chief Iyiola Oladokun.
The deceased, who held the prestigious title of Otun Iyalode of Ado, Ado-Awaye, passed away at the venerable age of 101.
The funeral service, held at Immanuel Baptist Church, Ago-Aafin, Ado-Awaye, drew prominent personalities from across Nigeria, transforming the solemn event into a celebration of an extraordinary century-long life defined by faith, sacrifice, and community service.
The event attracted a stellar guest list from the upper echelons of the Nigerian judiciary and political landscape.
Leading the dignitaries was the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Olukayode Ariwoola (rtd), alongside the Oyo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Moses Adeyemo, and the Asiwaju of Ijeshaland, Chief Yinka Fasuyi.
The legal community turned out in full force to support Chief Iyiola Oladokun, with notable attendance from members of the prestigious Body of Benchers, Justices of the Court of Appeal, and High Court judges.
In an emotional tribute, retired CJN Justice Ariwoola described the late centenarian as a woman of remarkable, enduring virtues. He expressed absolute confidence that her children and descendants would continue to uphold the rich values she embodied during her lifetime.
Reflecting on the inevitability of mortality, Justice Ariwoola remarked that while he wished she had lived even longer to witness more family celebrations, death remains an inescapable reality for all.
“We love you so much. *Abiyamo tootọ* (a true, exemplary mother),” the former CJN stated.
‘A Hero Maker’ — Cleric Likens Mama Oladokun to Biblical Mothers
Delivering a powerful sermon titled “Celebrating the Life and Time of a Hero Maker,” Rev. Edward Alabi of Molete Baptist Church, Ibadan, urged the congregation to look beyond longevity and focus on impact.
Drawing scriptural references from Proverbs 31:28-31, Rev. Alabi likened the late Chief Mrs. Oladokun to iconic biblical matriarchs like Hannah and Eunice—women who labored, prayed, and sacrificed deliberately to raise a great generation in the way of the Lord.
“Mama was a devout lover of peace. She loved her family fiercely, and she loved the church of God,” Rev. Alabi admonished.
“True achievement in life is measured not merely by the number of years spent on earth, but by the positive impact made and the selfless sacrifices left behind for others.”
He reminded the packed church that life is a temporary gift from God, urging the living to emulate Mama’s legacy of unwavering faith and selflessness.
‘She Refused to Give Up on Me’ — Former Deputy Governor Iyiola Oladokun Recalls Emotional Childhood
For the chief mourner, Chief Iyiola Oladokun, the day was a profound reflection on maternal devotion. The former Oyo State Deputy Governor described his mother as an exceptionally caring, compassionate, and selfless soul who anchored his life.
In a moving moment during his remarks, Chief Oladokun recounted a critical childhood episode where he fell dangerously ill. According to him, well-wishers and onlookers had advised his mother to abandon him, believing he would not survive.
“My mother refused to give up on me. She ignored everyone and nurtured me back to health,” the former Deputy Governor recalled, visibly moved. “My mother was everything to me. Her love, compassion, and nurturing are second to none. I thank God that all the good things that happened in my life unfolded while she was alive to witness them.”
Following the church service, the interment was held amid celebration, sealing the earthly journey of a matriarch whose impact spans generations across Oyo State and beyond.
Credit: reportersatlarge.com
