Former Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun has mourned the passing of Olori Taiwo Yetunde Gbadebo, describing her as a woman of substance who made invaluable contributions to the development of Egbaland, Ogun State, and Nigeria.
Olori Yetunde Gbadebo, widow of the erstwhile Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adesina Samuel Gbadebo II died on Tuesday, 20 February, 2024. She was aged 96.
The former Governor noted that Olori Yetunde Gbadebo will be remembered for her meritorious teaching career and service to the nation, particularly her unblemished records as a Resident Electoral Commissioner of FEDECO in charge of Rivers and Lagos States in the 1970s.
Olori Gbadebo was a patriotic Nigerian who served selflessly and discharged herself creditably well during the most critical periods in the history of our nation. As an Electoral umpire, she did not allow material gains to becloud her sense of commitment and service to her fatherland. She was an epitome of impeccable character, hard work, and selfless service.
Beyond her great exploits in public service, Olori Yetunde Gbadebo was, at some point, a key player in the Egba Traditional Institution such that the history of Egbaland would be incomplete without a generous mention of the significant roles the Gbadebo family, which she was an integral part of, played and continues to play.
She stood firmly with her husband, Oba Adesina Samuel Gbadebo II, and was instrumental to his successful reign as the Alake of Egbaland.
Olori Gbadebo’s service in the Lord’s vineyard was unrivaled. Her life and times was devoted to the propagation of Christianity. It gladdens my heart that she started preaching the gospel at the tender age of 16, and she remained resolutely committed to her belief till she breathed her last at the age of 96.
Senator Amosun while condoling with the Gbadebo royal dynasty particularly the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, the children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of the departed Olori, enjoined them not to mourn, but rather give thanks to God for the grace of longevity which Olori Gbadebo enjoyed and the enduring legacies that she left behind.
The former Governor prayed that the Almighty God would grant her eternal rest, and give the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
