Ilesa, Osun State, was agog on Saturday as prominent media personalities from across the country gathered to honour the life and legacy of Sister Olufunmilayo Emily Adeniran Adewale, the late mother of the Chairman of the Photo Journalists Association of Nigeria (PJAN), Mrs. Alaba Igbaroola.
The solemn yet celebratory occasion began with a burial service at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witness, Omiasoro, Ilesa, where tributes were paid to a devout woman whose life was marked by unwavering service to God and humanity.
Family members, including her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and in-laws, were present to bid farewell to the matriarch, who lived a fulfilled life of 88 years.
A grand reception followed at Gold City, Orita Iloko, where guests were treated to sumptuous meals, melodious music and warm fellowship, reflecting the joy and gratitude for a life well spent.
Dressed in elegant Aso Ebi, Mrs. Igbaroola and her siblings spoke glowingly of their mother’s impact on their family and community, describing her as a pillar of strength, faith and love.
Dignitaries at the event included the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Lagos Council, Comrade Adeleye Ajayi; Secretary, Tunde Olalere; Assistant Secretary, Olaide Awosanya; and Chairperson of NAWOJ Lagos Chapter, Jumoke Johnson. Others in attendance were NUJ Council Auditor, Oluwakemi Ishola; Ex-Officio, Gboyega Oni; former NAWOJ Vice President, Julie Ekong; Ayo Ojedokun; VC Correspondent Chapel Chairman, Ranti Fanayajo; and Queen Ugeh.
Comrade Ajayi offered prayers for the repose of the soul of the late Sister Olufunmilayo Emily Adewale and urged the family to take solace in the worthy legacy she left behind.
In her remarks, the PJAN Chairman, Mrs. Alaba Igbaroola, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the NUJ leadership, colleagues and well-wishers for their support, prayers and presence as the family celebrated the life of their beloved mother.