JEWELthe

Grand inlife, gloriousin death

CHIEF DR (MRS)

HID AWOLOWO(1915 - 2015)

NIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER

Love begets love, confidence begets confidence. If you show love and confidence to your husband, he too would reciprocate. And you would have to try, because it doesn't come naturally at all.� HID Awolowo (1987)

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Ithink it is pertinent that I should, at this juncture, say a word or two

about my wife and what she has meant to me. Throughout all the changing fortunes of my life since I married her on 26th December,

1937, my wife, Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo (nee Adelana) has been to me a jewel of inestimable value. She is an ideal wife; and I am sure she too regards me as an ideal husband. The outpouring of her love and devotion to me and to our family is exceeding and beyond words. She is a resourceful business-woman; and in this regard she is a worthy upholder of the traditions of her mother (Madam Elizabeth Oyesile) and grandmother (Chief Adebowale Oyegunle) both of whom were successful women traders. The grandmother at the age of over 100 was still carrying on her business, though only on a token scale. She opened her shop regularly everyday from dawn till dusk. My mother-in-law at 84 would wish to be as active as ever in business, but my wife and I have succeeded in persuading her to slow down considerably.

With my wife on my side, it has been possible for us to weather all financial storms. Due to her charm, humility, generosity and ever-ready sympathy and helpfulness for others in distress, she is beloved and respected by all our friends and acquaintances. She has courage of a rare kind — I have that too. But I am no match for her at all in her exercise of infinite patience and forbearance under all manner of circumstances. She absorbs without a word of complaint all my occasional acts of irritability. By her unique virtues, she has been of immeasurable assistance to me in the duties attached to my career as a public man. She has taken more interviews and listened to far more representations from the members of the public than I have time, or sometimes patience for. I do not hesitate to confess that I owe my success in life to three factors: the Grace of God, a Spartan self-discipline, and a good wife. Our home is to all of us (us and our children), a true haven: a place of happiness, and of imperturbable seclusion from the buffetings of life. It is on record to my wife's credit that she never made a financial demand on me throughout my stay in the United Kingdom. Besides, she always sent me good news every week about herself and the children; but when I returned home, I learnt that she had passed through many anxious times with four children, the oldest of whom was only five when I left home, and the youngest of who arrived four months after my departure.

It is a matter of joy and profound gratitude to Almighty God that our mutual love and devotion has been richly blessed. We have five children — two boys and three girls, the eldest of whom, Olusegun, died in tragic circumstances in 1963. The others are Mrs. Omotola Oyediran, Oluwole, Ayodele and Tokunbo.

Excerpts from My Early Life written by Chief Obafemi Awolowo

I can never matchmy wife’s level offorbearance,patience— Chief Obafemi Awolowo

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | | 1915 - 2015 II

THE JEWEL OF

AWO

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CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | | 1915 - 2015 III

It is a blunt, salient fact that Chief Dr. Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), was arguably the most powerful woman in

Nigeria. She was the chair of the board of the influential Nigerian Tribune newspaper, and its sister publications, the position she held since inception of the media house 65 years ago.

She had things in common with Katherine Graham, the late chairman of the Washington Post company, parent company of The Washington Post and Newsweek magazine. They were born two years apart – Mama HID in 1915 and Mrs. Graham in 1917. They both chaired the boards of influential national newspapers. Mrs. Graham was generally accepted as the most powerful woman in the United States.

HID and Mrs. Graham both published their autobiographies. Mrs. Graham's Personal History won the Pulitzer in the biography and autobiography category. HID's A Memoir of the Jewel is strewn with nuggets. It is a mine of rare information; it wins a gold medal for candour, credibility and readability.

Mrs. Graham inherited The Washington Post and Newsweek magazine; HID was present, and was a participant, when the idea of the Nigerian Tribune was conceived. She was more than an antenatal nurse when the idea began to take form. She was there, as anxious as any man whose wife is in labour, at the birth of the Nigerian Tribune.

Destined to reignHID was born on November 25, 1915. Her mother was

Deaconess Elizabeth Oyesile. Mrs Oyesile had seen all her six children for Chief Moses Odugbemi Adelana, her husband, die in infancy. She had heard the healthy cry of her babies, but they all died not long after they were born.

So, understandably, she feared for the survival of her new baby. But HID was a fighter – she not only survived her birth, but courageously confronted other battles of life till the very end at a ripe old age.

HID started school at Saint Saviour's (Anglican) School, Ikenne, her hometown, in 1921. She was barely six years old.

Following the closure of Saint's Saviour School by the authorities, because the teachers were not performing, she continued her education at Saint Peter's School, Faji, Lagos. She then attended Methodist Girl's High School, Lagos.

She returned to Ikenne in 1933 and taught at her old school.

HID then became a trader. For her, it was like a duck taking to water. She had been extensively schooled by her mother. She was a quick study. Even while in school in Lagos, she had started trading and even ordered goods from abroad. She was soon to trade her freedom for something more important, the companionship of matrimony.

The young man was called Obafemi Awolowo. He hardly knew his father who had died when he was only 11 years old. He had to make his own way in the world. So, he was involved in many things at the same time. One of them was writing letters for people for a fee.

Thus, it was the epistolary method he adopted in wooing his future wife. The letters were heartfelt but HID was not impressed. However, the young Awolowo was a determined young man and was not lacking in charm.

'Woman of steel'

After three years of courtship, both were married in 1937, a month after HID's 22nd birthday. She moved to Ibadan and later became a Class Leader in the Agbeni Methodist Church.

The couple's first child, Olusegun, came in January 1939. Awolowo was against his wife continuing with her business, arguing that any self-respecting man should be able to take good care of his family. HID was not used to being idle, but she did not allow it to sour the atmosphere of the home. She obeyed her husband, though her mother, a noted trader, was against her “doing nothing.”

Then Awolowo went to England to study Law, and HID had the chance to resume her business. This was not an act of rebellion; it was just facing reality. Her husband was a student in a faraway land and there were three children — and the fourth on the way — to take care of.

Her husband told her, on his return from England with the Law degree, that he had been strapped for cash on one of the occasions that money from her arrived. The matter of her engaging in business was eventually sorted out. Dideolu Stores Limited and Ligu Distribution Services Limited became major players in the retail and wholesale business.

Obafemi Awolowo became Minister of Local Government and Leader of the regional government in 1953, becoming Premier of the Western Region the following year. HID fully participated in the political affairs of her husband. She was not always beside him: she was sometimes in the South wooing and wowing voters while her husband was campaigning in the North. Under Chief Awolowo, the Western Region saw progress that has not been equalled and is, perhaps, matchless till today.

Chief Awolowo left the Premiership in 1959 to go to House of Representatives as Leader of the Opposition. Some of his lieutenants at the regional level, encouraged by the ruling coalition, rebelled. A Commission of Inquiry was set up by the federal authorities to look into how certain funds were managed while Awolowo was premier of the Western Region; but it was a clear witch-hunt.

His movements had earlier been restricted, while a state of emergency had been declared in the region. Now, he was charged with treasonable felony, and was not granted bail. The object was to ruin him politically, to smash his spirits. Then his eldest son, the young lawyer, the Cambridge University graduate, was killed in a road accident on his way to Lagos from Ibadan to, with his mother who was in Lagos, attend the trial of his father.

Naturally, HID was devastated: her eldest son was dead and her husband was in prison. But she was an uncommon woman, gracefully feminine but with a backbone of steel. She mastered her cruel adversaries and adversities.

Her husband was released from prison in 1966 and helped to stabilise the country after two military coups in seven months. When the ban on politics was lifted, he made himself available for the presidency. Though both were no longer very young, they campaigned energetically all over the country.

The result of the 1979 presidential election was

LAOLU AND HAROLDS PAUL OMOROGBE

Profileof a

“She had things in common withKatherine Graham, the late chairmanof the Washington Post company,parent company of The Washington Postand Newsweek magazine. They wereborn two years apart – Mama HIDin 1915 and Mrs. Graham in 1917.”

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Chief (Mrs ) HID Awolowo

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The legend lives on...

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | IV

controversial and that of 1983 was even more so. But HID and her husband moved on. They were not ones to look back in anger, let alone in regret. They had each other and the pure love of their children and grandchildren.

Honours unceasingHonours, unsolicited and endless, like sparkling waterfalls,

came her way. HID held high titles in the Agbeni Methodist Cathedral and Our Saviour's Church, Ikenne. She became matron of the Agbeni Youth Progressive Association in 1945 and was named Founder and Life Matron in 1955. She was also Matron of the Agbeni Methodist Church Wesley Group and of the First Ibadan Company of the Boys Brigade. She was Life Chief Matron of the Remo Battalion of the same brigade.

HID's church titles from Agbeni Methodist Cathedral and Our Saviour's Church, Ikenne, were not surprising. She was the daughter of parents who were both devout Christians and she had always been close to God, drawing great strength from Him.

At Our Saviour's Church, Ikenne, she became the Otun Iyalode in 1978, the Iyalode in 1981 and the Iya Ijo from 1988. She was a Lay Reader of the church, an honour she earned in 1982. She was Life Matron of Our Saviour's Church Choir. She was the Asiwaju Obinrin Onigbagbo of Remo land (CAN). She was also the National Mother of Christ Little Band of Nigeria; President, Men and Women Auxiliary and Diocesan Mother of Remo Diocese (Anglican Communion).

She was chairman of the working committee on the creation of Remo Anglican Diocese and signed the instrument establishing the diocese. The seat of the diocese is at Saint Paul's Sagamu. Her father had ancestral roots in the town.

She was a member of Lagos and Remo Diocesan Synods and the Provincial Synod. She built, singlehanded, a church, Obafemi Awolowo Memorial Anglican Church, Ikenne-Remo, in honour of her husband in March 1990.

HID visited the Holy Land in 1980, 1982 and 1988 on holy pilgrimage, and she was the chairman of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation and a founding member of Council of Women Societies, different from the National Council of Women's Societies.

She was given a Special Merit Award by Ikenne Development Association and another Special Merit Award by the Remo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mines and Agriculture. She was the Matron, National Association

classrooms in the Obafemi Awolowo Health Sciences Department of the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ikenne-Remo; she gave a bus to her old school, Methodist Girls High School, Lagos in 1974. Our Saviour's Church, Ikenne, has received many valuable gifts from her over the years, including stained glass, marble pulpits and marble chairs, plus seven giant air conditioners.

In 1980, being a mother indeed, HID presented a modern children's ward to Ikenne Community Hospital. Dideolu Specialist Hospital is a natural progression from the donated children's ward. It was built and named in her honour by her appreciative husband, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, to mark the occasion of her 70th birthday anniversary.

With the help of the Ogun State government, surgeons from the United States were brought in some time ago to the hospital. The expected arrival of the surgeons attracted people to the hospital in thousands. They were treated free of charge, including those needing major surgeries. The hospital was established to give quality health care to the people, especially the poor.

Unmatchable pedigree and brandHID had an enviable pedigree. Her maternal

grandmother, Erelu Adebowale Oyesile (Omo Alade Ijagba, Omo Arojojoye, Omo Erungben) belonged to the Ijagba Ruling House, Sagamu. Her paternal grandmother, Sadeke, belonged to the Obara Ruling House in Ikenne. Her paternal grandfather belonged to Owogbade Royal Family of the Liyangu Akarigbo, Sagamu.

She was the head of the Liyangu Ruling House, where the current Akarigbo of Remoland comes from.

HID was a personal brand like no other. She stood unrivalled among men and womenfolk alike. A package simply addressed 'H.I.D.' would have been correctly delivered by post to her. Despite her extensive influence and power in Nigeria, her only interest was allowing her newspaper to promote national development. No wonder, she was widely acclaimed as the Mother of the Nation.

It would be an understatement to say that her marriage to Chief Obafemi Awolowo was a very happy one. Perhaps 'Darby and Joan' should no longer be the phrase for a very happy marriage that goes on almost forever; 'Awo and H.l.D.' should now be the exemplar of such a marriage.

United now in death, theirs stood as a stellar example of what a successful marriage should be.

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“HID was a personalbrand like no other.She stood unrivalledamong menand womenfolk alike.”

of Nigerian Women in Business, Ogun State chapter. She was the chairman, Young Women Christian

Association (International), Western Region, Grand Matron of Remo Country Club, Grand Matron of Egbe Akekoo Ede Atasa Yoruba (MGHS), Life Matron, Ikenne Social Circle and Life Matron of Y.M.C., Ibadan.

HID held the chieftaincy title of Mojibade of Ikenne, conferred on her in 1955.

The late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, Olubuse II, conferred on her in 1980 the title of Yeye oba of Ife, a title that had not been conferred on any woman for four centuries.

There was not one dissenting voice when the issue of making HID the Iyalode of Remoland was raised. All the obas and chiefs agreed that it was the natural thing to do. The title was conferred on her in 1983; and a while later, the Ooni of Ife added the title of Yeye Oodua.

Olori Morisola Sijuwade, wife of the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuwade, speaking of Mama's roles as the Yeye Oodua, stated that Mama HID gave counsel on issues and acted as guide when situation demanded. She added that God endowed HID with an excellent spirit which encompassed wisdom, knowledge and understanding.

HID was a recipient of three honorary doctorates — Doctor in Civil Laws (D.C.L) from the Obafemi Awolowo University (1989), Doctor of Letters (D.Litt), awarded by the Ogun State University (now Olabisi Onabanjo University), 1997; and another Doctor of Letters (D. Litt) conferred on her by the University of Calabar; in 2001.

She was also an Honorary Fellow of the Yaba College of Technology, 2001. The federal government also conferred on her the National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

PhilanthropyHID was a generous giver. She built a block of

Chief (Mrs ) HID Awolowo (5th from left) and other old students of Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba, Lagos during the Founders’ Day Anniversary Thanksgiving service held at Agbeni Methodist Church in Ibadan. Mama hosted members at the reception in 1976

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They are the children and grandchildren of Chief (Mrs) H.I.D. Awolowo. Looking resplendent with an infectious calm, they reminisced on the wonderful years that they spent with her and the blessedness that

attended the period.

BY YINKA OLUKOYA

“She was absolutely fulfilled. In this world, the most successful people are those who discovered their actual life-machine and stayed with it.

“It was very clear that when you reflect on her last moment, she was very comfortable.”

She lived afulfilled life— Ambassador Dr. (Mrs) TokunboAwolowo Dosumu (daughter)

“Mama was more than a grandmother. When I reflected on the life Mama lived, it was extraordinary to marry a man like Chief Obafemi Awolowo, to live with his ideals and to support and make him strong when he was weak. She covered for him and the whole family.

An epitome of greatwomanhood—Segun Awolowo (grandson)

“One day, I asked her why she was always looking tired in the morning and she said by the time she prayed for all the grandchildren and great-grandchildren, mentioning their names one by one, she would realise that it was almost morning and time one was supposed to get out of bed.”

Mama prayedincessantly— Olukemi Aderemi(granddaughter)

“Mama died as gloriously as she lived. She spent the day in the company of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She shared a precious five minutes with them when she went in to pray for them as they met to plan her centenary birthday.

Mama diedgloriously— Revd (Mrs) Omotola Oyediran(daughter)

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CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | V

“She was a very good listener. She didn't talk too much, and she didn't like idleness at all. She was a kind of grandmother that wanted you to work hard and support your family.”

Sheabhorredidleness—Mrs. Ayotola Ayodeji(granddaughter)

“Mama would call me to her room and would explain that with hard work and discipline, anybody could acquire the things she had.”

She ensureddiscipline,family unison — Ms. Olufunke Awolowo(granddaughter)

“She had been caring for me since I was born. I remember she used to sing to me anytime she visited. She was very very caring. She taught me quite a lot about love and how to care for people. I thank God that she fulfilled her destiny on earth.”

Grandma fulfilledher destiny— Mrs. Wemimo Anifowose(granddaughter)

A womanof peace —Obafemi Awolowo (Jnr) (grandson)

“Mama was a woman of peace. She had a way of managing issues. I remember a day, my brother, Bukola, offended me. I cried to Mama. All she did was to calm me down and offer me a cup of juice. She made me comfortable that after a while, I forgot that someone made me angry.”

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“She was an embodiment of grace. She was intelligent and caring. She was very loving, passionate and disciplined. She will be missed.”

An embodimentof grace— Olayinka Awolowo(grandson)

Mama neveraccepted failureas an option—Ladi Soyode (grandson)

“She had a rare ability of combining leadership in different aspects of her life. She was the centre of attraction in everything she did. A very hardworking woman. She had a great sense of humor. She had a deep devotion to God and the family. She never accepted failure as an option.”

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BY KEHINDE OYETIMI

The crowd was joyfully expectant; the tension in the air was electrifying. All eyes were fixed on the entrance as news of the arrival of Chief Mrs

Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo filtered in and a general hush settled on the gathering. As seconds rolled into minutes, the delightful elation increased, as the people stood ready with smiles to welcome the matriarch of the Awolowo dynasty to the premises of the Tribune House, Ibadan. Mama, as she was fondly called, had such effect on those she held dear. It was March 12, 2015, the day of the commissioning of Tribune's new printing press.

As she cut the tape to officially declare the printing press ready for business, one could deduce from her unwavering facial expression that she was at home. It was the last time she would grace Tribune with her living presence and for as many memorable years to come, her aura, dignity, charisma and authority in leaving a privileged legacy would live on.

The joy of satisfactorily steering the ship of Tribune, the humble pride that comes with ensuring the staying power and relentless national relevance of the Tribune titles, and the contentment that exudes from actively motivating Tribune to becoming Nigeria's oldest surviving privately owned newspaper was visible in her mien. That day, her sweetly compelling bearing was one of a kind. She definitely was in the best place possible and she couldn't be prouder. Even the heavens smiled at her efforts. Mama had done well.

Lauding the efforts of the management and staff of Tribune, Mama, who noted that running a business

privately was not easy for anyone in this challenging period, stated that she couldn't have achieved all without the commitment of the workers and commended all for a job well done.

To the management and staff, you're the best –HIDIn her address read by Reverend (Mrs) Tola

Oyediran, her eldest child and a member of the board of directors of the company, Mama HID Awolowo, appreciated the steadfastness of the Tribune titles towards holding the forte and maintaining prominence from the beginning, and even in today's media.

According to her, “It is with great pleasure that I welcome you to this important event. Today's importance lies in the fact that the mustard seed planted by my wonderful husband, the inimitable Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and myself has become an indestructible oak. I am happy that the Nigerian Tribune, at 65, is soaring higher in my lifetime and is still considered relevant in this crucial moment of our national history.

“Today is one of the most memorable in my lifetime after the sage had gone to glory. I thank the board and shareholders of ANN Plc for support in making the occasion a reality. As for the management and staff of our great company, you are the best in the industry. I am very proud of you. It is not easy running a business successfully in these challenging times. That we have gone this far, shows our strength and character as Nigerians.”

Awolowo is a name associated with quality –Governor Ajimobi

Governor of Oyo State, who was the special guest

I'm gladTribunebecame an indestructibleoak inmy lifetime—HID

at the commissioning, in his address, began by acknowledging the matriarch of the Awolowo family, saying that the family was one that all others, especially in politics, found shelter in, and noting that all wanted to associate with the family.

Speaking on the quality representation Tribune presents, especially with Mama's significamt leadership of the newspaper these past years, Governor Ajimobi stated that “Today is a great milestone for our own newspaper. Awolowo is a name that is associated with quality and today Nigerian Tribune epitomises this,” just as he congra tu la ted Tr ibune fo r meet ing the requirements of staying relevant in the media industry by acquiring the new press, adding that he was “happy and elated to be part of this historic event.”

Mama's business sagacity and managerial acumen are legendary –Mr Dickson

In his address, the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, ANN Plc, Mr Edward Dickson, extolled the efforts of Mama HID Awolowo, for her “quintessential commitment” to the running of the company, which “culminated in the acquisition of the new printing machine we are commissioning today.”

His words: “The machine you are about to commission is a testimony to your business sagacity and managerial acumen as the chairman of the board of directors of ANN Plc. We thank you for your support at all times and we salute your discipline, tenacity of purpose and your unwavering support for all that is lofty and heartwarming about the legacy of your beloved husband, Papa Obafemi Awolowo.”

Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo flanked by the Oyo State governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi (left) and Reverend (Mrs) Tola Oyediran during the commissioning of Tribune’s new press in March 2015.

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Yeye Odua and chairman, African Newspapers of Nigeria (ANN) Plc, Publishers of the Tribune Titles, Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo, with the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Mr Edward Dickson (2nd left) and other members of the management team, cutting the cake to mark the 65th anniversary of the company at the Awolowos’ residence, Ikenne-Remo, Ogun State.

Governor Ibikunle Amosun greeting Mama HID on her 99th birthday ceremony.

She was the scene

From left, former President Jonathan and Chief (Mrs) HID AwolowoFrom left, Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo, President Muhammadu Buhari and Vice President, Yemi Osinbajo

Papa, Mama and children on Papa's 70th birthday anniversary

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The Osile of Oke Ona, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso and Mama

CELEBRATING AN ICON CELEBRATING AN ICON

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | IXVIII | 1915 - 2015 | CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO

Mama with the Ooni of Ife, Oba Okunade Sijuade and former Governor Gbenga Daniel

Former Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State and Mama HID Awolowo.

The late Pa Abraham Adesanya and Chief Ayo Adebanjo with Mama HID.

Mama HID Awolowo welcoming the former governor of Ondo State, Chief Adebayo Adefarati (right) to Ikenne, Ogun State

From left, Mama HID Awolowo, former Governor Segun Osoba and Chief Felix Ibru

Mama with the late Aare Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Arisekola Alao.

Basorun MKO Abiola exchanging pleasantries with HID during the launch of The Voice of The Voiceless,at the University of Ibadan. Standing with him is Evangelist Oluwole Awolowo

Mama HID Awolowo discussing with former governor of Rivers State, Dr Peter Odili

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as the guest of honour at the commissioning of the Awolowos' pet project, the Dideolu Specialist Hospital, in Ikenne.

Mama at an event organised by O'dua Investment Group.

From left, Anthony Adefuye, ex-governors Segun Oni, Adebayo Alao-Akala, Gbenga Daniel, Olagunsoye Oyinlola, Alhaji Ali Olanusi, Senator Femi Okunrounmu and Otunba Tiwalade Sobo with Mama HID Awolowo during Odua’s Governors’ Unity meeting in Ikenne, 2009.

From left, General Yakubu Gowon, Mama and another guest at a public event.

The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi engages HID in a tete-a-tete.

She was the scene

Governor Olusegun Mimiko of Ondo State presenting a gift to Mama.

General Olusegun Obasanjo sitting between Mama (right) and Alhaja Anotu Awofeso.

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HID was a model of Christianvalues — Clerics

able Samuel Oladele Enike, the Archdeacon of Ikenne Archdeaconry and Vicar of Our Saviour's Anglican Church, Ikenne, in an interview with TribuneChurch, recalls his first impression of Mama HID.

She was an epitome of Christian virtues –Methodist Prelate

Many with whom she interacted have testified to her rare example of godliness. The Prelate, Methodist Church Nigeria, His Eminence, Dr Samuel C.K. Uche, while extolling Mama's virtues, described her as an epitome of Christian virtues of love, tolerance and accommodation.”

Also buttressing Mama's Christian style of leadership which made her stand tall among her peers, the Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, T h e

Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, described Mama as “an international, national, community as well as strong Christian leader whom future generations and even all of us should aspire to imitate, especially in such a way that others will benefit from our lives and we can be a blessing to others. Her fulfilled life and glorious death should serve as lesson for others to be steadfast and loyal to the church they belong to.”

She was a worthy Christian –Primate AyodeleForemost prophet and founder of INRI Evangelical

Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, in his remarks on Mama Awolowo who regretted that although he never met Mama in person, her qualities which travelled far and beyond were legendary, a feat even

testified to by the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Sijuade Okunade.

According to the cleric, “From my various interactions with Ooni Sijuade, Mama was a worthy representative of Christianity. In fact, I can

state that like the Ooni, punctuality was her thing. She was rarely late to events and

it is quite unfortunate that I

BY RITA OKONOBOH

“Those who walkuprightly enter into peace;they find rest as theylie in death.”

Isaiah 57:2

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | X

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Death for many Christians, even with the promise of eternity, is rarely a celebration, but for those who have lived exemplary lives,

attested to by the many left to cherish their memories, it is a celebration of the promise of salvation, a goal which many Christians hope to achieve at the end of their lives on earth.

Since the news of the passing of the matriarch of the Awolowo dynasty, Chief (Mrs) H.I.D. Awolowo, broke, music has not ceased from the premises. It has been the celebration of a life well spent, not just to the service of mankind but to setting a representative model of what Christianity stands for.

M a n y w i t h w h o m s h e interacted have testified to her rare example of godliness. Vener

HID Awolowo Anglican Church, Sagamu, was built by Mama HID Awolowo for the furtherance of the Christian gospel.

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‘Mama glorified God with her life’never met her. She was a mother and in her actions, God was always at the forefront.”

Also, Founder, Evangelical Church of Yahweh, Primate Theophilus O. Olabayo, while praising Mama for her staunch faith in God, noted that Mama was a courageous prayer warrior and dedicated wife who stood behind her husband, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, and “imbibed discipline and taught her children the way of prayer.”

Mama was a complete church woman –Bishop Fape

Bishop of Remo Anglican Diocese, Ogun State, The Most Reverend Olusina Fape, recalls that “Mama was a complete church woman. She was the chairman of the implementation committee, the committee that saw to the birth of the creation of Diocese of Remo in 1984, and had the singular honour of being one of the three who appended their signature to the deed of relinquishment when Remo diocese was created.”

Speak ing on some of Mama's peculiarities with regards to church development, Fape stated that “as a single individual, Mama was the first to host the diocesan synod in 2011 and we raised about N45million which was used to build a church in memory of Mama, now called HID Awolowo Anglican Church, located in Ewuga, Sagamu. Considering all that Mama did, she was the mother of the diocese of Remo.”

Speaking on what Mama was popular for in church, Venerable Samuel Oladele Enike, the Archdeacon of Ikenne Archdeaconry and Vicar of Our Saviour's Anglican Church, Ikenne, who describes Mama as a great listener, lauds her significant contribution to the growth of the church, noting that “By virtue of being the wife of the late sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, she was already popular. However, she didn't allow that to make her neglect the church. One thing she was known for was her punctuality to church services. One thing that struck me was that even at her age, she was among the first and even sometimes the first, to arrive in church and that was testament to her attitude to Christianity.”

'Who can replace Mama?'Reverend Odewole Michael Olusoji, the

pioneer priest-in-charge of HID Awolowo A n g l i c a n C h u rc h , S a g a m u , w h o emphasised Mama's selflessness as legendary, observes that “Mama was a loving and caring mother who loved men of God and this was evident in her disposition towards them. One peculiar thing about Mama was her knack for punctuality and prayer. Sometimes when I visited her, she would ask me to pray not just for her and her family members, but also for those who were not members of the family. Whatever the discussion one had with her, we must pray; it was compulsory. Even as she became older, and she wasn't really strong enough to say so much, whenever I visited her, she would still say, 'Reverend, pray.'

“There is nothing we did here which she was not fully

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | XI

involved in. If she would not be around personally, she would send worthy representatives and her contribution to the development of the church cannot be quantified. I was discussing with the People's warden recently and she said, 'Who is that person that will replace Mama?' Mama was a perfect example of how to live a worthy life; a life of prayer and selfless service. The privilege she had, she used well and she spent her life well to impact

people in the society, in the church of God and in the nation at large. She will be missed by all.”

Her lifetime, testimony to u n c o m m o n e x p l o i t s –Archbishop Abegunrin

The Catholic Archbishop of Ibadan, Most Reverend Gabriel 'Leke Abegunrin, captures her thus, “Her lifetime was testimony to m i r a c l e s , g r e a t n e s s , uncommon exp lo i ts and exemplary efforts at nation building. Her death is a shining ex a mp l e o f t rue l i v in g , memorable insight and deep faith.”

We pray Nigeria remains true to her motherly vision —CAN

Archbishop Magnus Atilade, South West Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), in his contribution on Mama's Christian example, stated that “she was a dear mother to all of us, from our days a Ibadan Grammar School with her son, Wole. When we would stop at her house, she would prepare meals for us and when we were leaving, she would give us provisions to take back. She was a virtuous woman all her life and she was the pillar behind Chief Obafemi Awolowo and even after Baba left, she held the fort till the last minute.”

Mama enriched my ministry –Prophet Kumoluyi

Prophet Julius Babatunde Kumoluyi, the General Overseer of The Word Bible Church in Ketu, Lagos, who shared his experiences with Mama stated that “Sometime in 1997, I received a letter from Mama HID requesting copies of my messages. Rather than send the tapes, I took them to her personally. When I went to deliver the tapes, she said “Man of God, why come all the way? I expected you to send one of your aides?” I had to respect her because honour must be given to whom honour is due. She said “okay” and thanked me. Her humility struck me. Since then, I became a frequent

visitor to Mama in Ikenne.Mama's Christian example is enviable, and many

admire her for her sterling qualities, especially as they testify to the fact that she lived a fulfilled life. After all, it is usually said that those who have lived well have no fear of death. Popular author, Mark Twain, captures this in his words – “The fear of death follows from the fear of life. A man who lives fully is prepared to die at any time.”

CONTINUED FROM X

Mama with Bishop Fape

Mama with Pastor Adeboye

Mama with Archbishop Mbang

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She was an archive

CELEBRATING AN ICON

What was your very first impression of Mama when you first met her?

My first impression of her was her abiding love for Tribune which I got to understand because of my interest in studying her husband and his political life. I got to know that they were both involved in starting Tribune and both of them, with their first son, Segun Awolowo, were there at the opening of the newspaper. From the way she spoke that day, it was clear that Tribune was beloved. I was impressed with that abiding love and deep interest she had for the newspaper, as well as sustaining her husband's legacy. In itself, anything that had to do with Papa was of absolute interest to her.

Many people would have loved to write Mama's biography. Why do you think she picked you?

I wouldn't know. She paid attention to details a lot. In fact, sometimes, the grandchildren joked that she would pretend not to notice something but she was actually paying close attention. She had a discerning mind. I suspect that over the years, she had heard of someone who was very interested in studying Papa's legacies. She had the capacity to gather information from a lot of people. I remember the opening of the Obafemi Awolowo Institute of Governance and Public Policy in Lekki, of which I'm a member of the board of trustees. So many old people were speaking that day and the former governor of Lagos State, Senator Bola Tinubu, seemed uncomfortable with the old men's stories and he said, 'Call Wale, let's hear some fresh stories from younger people. I wasn't prepared but I was called upon anyway. I remember the late publisher, Oluwole Awolowo, telling me not to waste time and as I went to speak, although not prepared, so as not to waste time, I decided to sing the song we used to sing on the anniversary of free education, when I was in primary school. Mama paid a lot of attention and that changed the event and Chief Osoba, Odia also followed in the song. When I saw her in April this year, she remembered that event. She equally told Tribune's MD, Mr Edward Dickson and the Consultant, Dr. Segun Olatunji, that I had to do a book for her centenary celebration. I saw her at Pa Olaniwun Ajayi's 90th birthday and she simply asked me, 'How about my book?'

You initially tried to evade writing the biography. Why? What changed your mind?

It was a daunting task and I already had a lot of obligations in a few places around the world, as well as working at my job. I was also doing a book on the Nigerian press, editing books on leadership and writers, among others. I had so much on my hands and I wanted to evade it because I knew it would be very tasking.

However, when it was close to the time, I thought it would be impossible because, although I used to be able at such multitasking when I was younger, I wasn't sure I could because of age. But she insisted and I realised that it was an order, not a piece of advice. There was no way I could turn her down and it was an honour to be asked by Mama to do anything.

The book is an attempt to twin the lives of two great people. Considering their statuses, how challenging was it to write about Papa and Mama in one book?

It was extremely challenging but maybe what made it easier was that I was familiar with Papa's story and have written about him. I am a student of Awo's public life and politics. By that token, and having worked in Tribune for many years, I'm familiar with members of the family. Also, Papa's story is also a lot about Mama so it was more like taking the story from Mama's angle. I have also read other

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | XII

books on Mama and I thought that the best way to write the story of Mama was from Papa Awolowo's angle which he didn't understate but which many people have not paid attention to. It was very challenging but it was also very entertaining because it is a fantastic and interesting story.

No book, in itself, is entirely complete. If Mama were to be alive, what questions would you have loved to ask her?

There are several I'd have loved to ask her while I was doing the book. Although Mama was old, and she didn't have much strength, during interviews for the book, her memory was surprisingly intact. It may take a while for her to remember particular names, but she usually remembered. When I was doing the Awo book, in 2005/2006, I had interviewed her and some of the stories are published in Mama's book, which I didn't

include in the Awo book. I wish I had done the book then. There were several stories she had given in the past which I would have loved her to tell again, because I knew there would be additions. I maintained the present tense in the book because we had not finished the book when she died. Mama is a fascinating person. I remember the last interview when, although I had asked her before, I asked her again about her saddest day and she said, 'But you've asked me before,' and she recollected the story clearly. That was interesting for me as a student of narrative because what we retell about life is in constant revision, not as a lie.

Few women have had their lives celebrated in such positive light. From your experience on the life of Mama, what would be your advice for women, especially politicians' wives?

I have none. Let them read about great women like Mama and make their own choices in the context of the challenges of their own times.

Mama has proven to be a strong pillar of discipline and

support during and after the passing of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. What do you think was her staying power?

The preface to the book is 'The Grammar of Fortitude.' Her fortitude was incredible and is a story for all times. People forget that when Papa was thrown into jail, it was sentence with hard labour. That was someone who had been prime minister. It was very challenging for Mama at the time. And then the loss of her first son! Mama never recovered from that loss until the day of her death and she said as much in the interview. All the family members affirm that fact and that is why I dedicated an entire chapter to the death of her first son and her two other children.

If you could change anything about the book, what would that be?

I would want to write it for two years, then, I would have at least three to four times the volume of what I have. I wrote the book in eight weeks – I had four weeks to do interviews and get information from the archives and the writing was done in eight weeks. I started research in the last week of June and I was here till the second to last week of July. Then I started writing in the first week of August. Mama had made it clear that even if it was 24 hours before her birthday, I would write that book. There were fascinating aspects of her life I wish I could dwell on.

What will you miss most about Mama?I miss her sense of humour. Another thing was that she

was an archive. People forget that Mama was a business w o m a n who had connections across

social strata and various ethnicities. So, she was

an archive in more senses than one.

She was an archive because of her memory, experiences, and a b i l i t y t o u n d e r s t a n d

th ings . She helped Papa tremendously because she

h a d t h e capacity to see

through people. It is difficult to imagine

that Mama is not here because to me, she is there forever. She will be missed

in so many ways.

— Adebanwi, HID's biographer KEHINDE OYETIMI and LAOLU HAROLDS provide excerpts of an interaction with Professor Wale Adebanwi, author of the now popular biography on Chief (Mrs) H.I.D. Awolowo, entitled In the Radiance of the Sage: The Life and Times of H.I.D. Awolowo.

“She was an archivebecause of her memory,experiences, and abilityto understand things.”

Professor Adebanwi

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One woman, many sides,unending encomiums

CELEBRATING AN ICON

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | |1915 - 2015 XIII

She was human and humane; she was large but not larger than life; she maintained a contemplative gaze. Blessed with a fertile mind, an interrogative spirit, it was definitely safe to conclude that, like her husband, the peerless Chief Obafemi Awolowo, she was born before her time.Firm, fecund and fearless, Mama HID Awolowo stimulated the era in which she lived and beyond with the precocity of her personality. Searching through the compendium of his oratorical prowess, the inimitable Chief Obafemi Awolowo, could not but describe her as the 'jewel of inestimable value'. Until her death, Mama HID was a collage of accomplishments. She had her moments of triumphs, her memories of trials. Unlike many, she bore both periods with equal equanimity. With her husband, she humanised the harsh realities in which they lived. Thrown into the political arena by the clear demands of her time, she rose to become a reference point of political rectitude and moral uprightness.She met each challenge in her life with an unwavering faith in the Providence of her Maker. A Christian, Mama HID spared no coin towards the expansion of the gospel of her saviour. She lived for Christ, was spent for Christ, died in Christ…and will resurrect again with her Redeemer. An entrepreneur, she matched every call to duty with increasing energy and untiring devotion. Little wonder then that the legacies of her husband have improved immeasurably. A winsome wife, a marvelous mother, a magnificent matriarch and a moving spirit, her life contributed copiously to the public discourse on liberty, freedom, service and love. Since her passage into eternity on September 19, 2015, there has been no end to the testimonies of her Christian piety, generosity, valor and forbearance, among other attributes. Below are excerpts of testimonies of people on this great virtuous woman

“Chief (Mrs.) Awolowo will be long remembered and celebrated as the famous spouse and pillar of strength of the late nationalist, political leader and sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo. She will always be honoured, too, for indelible legacies.”

She left indeliblelegacies— President Buhari

“She has left a huge vacuum in our lives, she will be remembered for her humanitarian and philanthropic deeds. She lived an exemplary life worthy of emulation.”

She wanteda new Nigeria— VP Yemi Osinbajo

“She wanted to see a united Nigeria, a nation where we don't identify ourselves by our tribes and where we all know that we are all Nigerians. That is the kind of nation that she lived for, and that is the kind of nation that she looked forward to seeing before she died.”

“Mama was a rare mother. She was a woman of virtue described in the Bible, and she was a mother to all of us; a mother whose milk of kindness, encouragement and advice we still need.”

“She was the last woman standing among the wives and mothers who truly contributed by supporting their spouses in laying the foundation for our nation building.”

“Her contributions were tremendous, and I will always thank her for that because if we had not approached her to prevail on Papa Awolowo to join the government, probably he may not have, but he then accepted and he did exceptionally well”

BY HAROLDS AND OYETIMI LAOLU KEHINDE

A good wife,mother

Her contributionswere tremendous

— Senate PresidentBukola Saraki

— General Yakubu Gowon

She left avacuum—Speaker Yakubu Dogara

A rare mother,woman of virtue —former PresidentGoodluck Jonathan

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CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | | 1915 - 2015 XIV

“Normally, for all of us, it should be a mixed feeling because Mama had lived a life that most of us will envy; but it doesn't matter how long our loved ones had lived, we will still want them to remain with us.”

We envyher life

“Mama HID Awolowo was mother to all and an epitome of honesty, integrity and dignity. She was a rare gem; a symbol of fineness and firmness.”

Epitome ofhonesty, integrity — Former VicePresident Atiku Abubakar

“In spite of the political vicissitudes of the First Republic, Mama HID toured the entire country with her husband campaigning in the Second Republic. She was a woman of valour and a friend indeed”

A woman ofvalor — Governor Ibikunle Amosun

— Former PresidentOlusegun Obasanjo

“It is traditional to recognise the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, as the greatest Nigerian ever, but Awolowo would not have been the colossus that he was if not for the pillar he had in Mama.”

She made Awoa colossus —Governor Olusegun Mimiko

“Her death is a celebration of life, a celebration of ideology and we will continue to represent what she and her husband stood for. She has left legacies for our children's children.”

Her death, acelebration ofideology — Governor Ayodele Fayose

“HID is unforgettable! She was a great woman, and we will sorely miss her a lot, just as her husband had correctly described her as a 'jewel of an inestimable value'. She stood by us during our political travails.”

Her death markedend of an era

“I am very happy, I thank God. It is a period of celebration because the way Mama passed on was peaceful. We praise God. Papa died on Saturday, she died on Saturday. You can see that the two of them are one and the same, inseparable.”

We praise God— Aremo Olusegun Osoba

“Nigeria will miss a great woman, the footprint left by papa is there, and mama had continued to maintain that footprint and the love for all of us. I believe it is our time to celebrate one of the greatest icons of womanhood.”

One of thegreatest icons— Asiwaju Bola Tinubu

“Mama had an unlimited, unmatchable, dignifying and great mental capacity and sagacity, disciplined, firm and sturdy disposition.”

She had greatmental capacity— Governor Abiola Ajimobi

—Alhaji Lateef Jakande

One woman, unending encomiums

“The thing that was really outstanding about her was her relationship with her husband. She was a true wife. She was to him a consultant and a friend – a dependable. She was to us a great pillar.”

A great pillarof support — Sir Olaniwun Ajayi

“She ate a wonderful pounded cocoyam and then went to sleep. That is the way good people die; she deserved it. She was a good sustenance of Papa and she carried the flag of Papa's philosophy flying until she died. We have lost a great woman.”

We have lost agreat woman — Chief Ayo Adebanjo

“The Yoruba nation and Nigeria have lost a stabilising force. Chief Mrs. Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo was a personification of the good wife, the caring mother and the woman with enough deep conviction to weather the storm of life without giving up.”

A stabilisingforce —Former Governor Gbenga Daniel

“That we are remembering Mama from Park Lane, Apapa, shows that she has been a major bastion of commerce and trade and the whole development of Lagos State. For us, this is a Lagos loss. She has been very generous and we will miss her greatly.”

A bastion ofcommerce, trade— Governor Akinwunmi Ambode

“Mama HID adopted my wife, Daisy, and I some 10 years ago. We still miss her loving maternal guidance. She was a remarkable woman who refined her faculty to the very end of her long life. She departed with dignity and majesty.”

She wasremarkable— General T.Y. Danjuma

“Mama was there for everyone irrespective of political party, ideological persuasion, religion or tribe. She was a stabilising factor across the country and for different governments at the local, state and federal levels.”

She was astabilising factor— General Ibrahim Babangida

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CELEBRATING AN ICON

We were privileged to have workedfor her —HID's aides

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | XV

could barely speak but after several persuasions, she said “I saw the advertisement for the position in Nigerian Tribune and I applied, it was my first application ever. I came to Ibadan for the interview and later, I was asked to resume but the job was at Ikenne. I never knew Mama was the chairman of the paper. Mama was preparing for her 89th birthday so I was asked to resume after the celebration. It has been quite an experience. What I have learnt from Mama is sufficient to take me through a life time. From her, I learnt to be strong and to stand by my husband as a woman. She told me of her experiences when Papa Awolowo was incarcerated and how she held on. She was so hardworking, she is a perfectionist. When I took this job I was told that Mama was very tough but whatever I did was perfect by Mama. When I make mistakes, she simply corrected me. She took me like a granddaughter. I got married here in her house. My husband works in the Dideolu Specialist Hospital. I used Mama’s choice car for my wedding. She was like a grandmother to my children. I will miss mama terribly. In the past 11 years of my life, I wake up every day to see her. Through her, I have met so many dignitaries. She had so much confidence in me, she was never tribal because I am Igbo and never listened to what negative people had to say. She took my opinions highly, if we discussed things and I made suggestions, she listened despite the age difference,” she concluded.

This job changed my life — StewardSpeaking, Ismail Yakubu, a native of Okene in Kogi

state and a steward who had been working at the Awolowo house since 1998, said “ I was introduced to Mama by a friend, Jimoh, who was at the time working at the maintenance department of the house. Mama accepted me without any

discrimination and asked me to fix my salary though I politely declined. The job changed my life. I was designated with taking care of the house and entertaining the guests. I came here single but today I am married with three children. Mama was an exceptional employer, in my almost two decades of working for her; there is no second that I regret my decision. She never treated me badly or reported me to anyone.”

On her passing Yakubu said “we are all shocked because she was in very high spirits on Saturday morning. She was lively and joking with us. We took her round the compound for her regular exercise, I pushed her wheel chair round the compound, I cannot believe she is gone.”

Her memory was impeccable —Chief cook The kitchen department was not left out, Elizabeth

Akinwumi, Mama’s cook, spoke highly of Mama.“Mama was too brilliant. Her memory was

impeccable even till the day she passed on. She lived a beautiful long life. I learnt a lot from Mama. She was really hardworking. Even at her age, she woke up before 6am every morning and presides over the morning devotion. I have been with her for about a decade. Mama’s favorite food was Ikokore, the Ijebu kind of porridge but she was a light eater and was very hospitable,” she stated.

She was a great believer — CookMama’s cook and domestic help, Deborah

Agboola, said of Mama: “she was a great mother and took care of us well in all ways. I learnt so much from her, she was so brave. Sometimes, she woke up by 5am. She was a great believer. We never skipped devotions and until her death, she officiated them. Her favourite psalms were 23, 91 and 121. She always led prayers.”

As many paid condolences and registered their testimonies about Mama

HID, there were some others too shocked to sign the registers. These are the people who had lived and worked with Mama. The people whom she regarded as, not staff members, but family, the ones who watched her wake up and bade her good night, some for a decade and others for much more and other loyalists whose testimonies were such that could thaw the icy mountains of the Artatica.

She taught me to be a virtuous woman —Personal Assistant

Oluwatoyin Esther, Mama’s Personal Assistant and Secretary, a m i d s t s o b s s h a r e d h e r testimony of late HID. “Mama was a virtuous woman, a woman of strength whose intellect was u n r i v a l e d . S h e w a s a disciplinarian and was extremely

BY VERA ONANA

hardworking. Even at her age, she displayed a rare level of hard work. When I resume at 8am, Mama would already be seated and ready for the day’s activity. She woke up as early as five. She was also very devoted to the Christian faith. She never joked with anything that had to do with God. She gave her time and money unflinchingly.” Speaking about the things she would miss the most about Mama, she said: “I will miss her company and guidance, we used to talk a lot. I read her the papers every morning and she told me a lot of stories and important political histories. Mama had exceptional retentive memory for her age, even till she passed on, her memory never failed. She told me of the politics in Papa Awolowo’s time and she was able to relate the present political situation to the past very coherently. We talked about my marital life as a single person and she taught me virtues that can make one excel as a wife. She taught me those things that made her excel and why Papa called her his “jewel of inestimable value.” Talking about the day she passed on, she said “I never knew it would be her last day, I resumed that morning and she was ready for the meeting that would take place that day, she admired my slippers and asked me to buy the same for her. She vetted the Aso-Oke for her birthday and we sang for her. She asked for her lunch and even asked me to join her. She looked at me and said “you have been doing very well, you are not a thief”, she commended the cook too. We had no idea she was telling us goodbye, she went to bed and that was all. It is so painful but I am glad I met her in my lifetime. She lived a great life. She came, she saw and she conquered,” she concluded.

Lessons from Mama will take me through a lifetime –

SecretaryMrs. Phillips Chinwe, Mama’s secretary since 2004

Mama and her aides

Tribune’sSpecial

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A burial with a

It was a panoply of tributes, songs and high praises. The programme of events for the burial of Chief Mrs H.I.D. Awolowo was, in itself, reflective of the person

and personality of the departed. Since her demise, through to the courtesy calls on the Awolowo clan, to the final rites of passage and the eventual burial of Mama H.I.D., none other event could compete for space in the media across the country. Indeed, it had been eleven eventful days of outstanding rites of passage.

None in recent history has enjoyed such flamboyance of honour and salvo of accolades as did Mama in death. Ten days before her burial, Mama remained the cynosure of eyes even in death. Each day, she was clothed with the best. A new day, a new outfit. Her clothes held their fascination. Since her transition, her Ikenne residence became a Mecca of sort with eating, drinking and dancing. The elite came calling, the lowly was there. Those who could not come sent representatives and those who never joined their voices in the chorus of commendation for Mama were, perhaps, society's nobodies.

Lagos parades its finest, best for HIDOn Sunday, November 15, 2015, the impatient Lagos

took a pause from its tiring routine as it played host to the lying-in-state ceremony of Chief Mrs Awolowo. The Park Lane which is the Apapa residence of the Awolowos in Lagos received dignitaries from the state and diplomats from the international scene. Leading them was the governor, Mr Akinwumni Ambode and his wife, Bolanle.

For Papa and Mama, Lagos was part of their political travails and conquests.

Ibadan stands still as govs, clerics, Tribune, others bid HID farewell

The fanfare of glowing tributes shifted to Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, on Monday, November 16, 2015. From Mama's lying-in-state at Oke Bola, to the

difference

Commendation Service at Agbeni Methodist Church, the highlight was the arrival of her body at the Tribune House.

Commercial activities and vehicular movements were halted as elite and residents bade Mama HID farewell. Led by the state governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi and his wife, Florence, it was a tremendous presence of honour. Others included Governors Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State and Rauf Aregbesola of Osun State.

The Tribune House, headquarters of the African Newspapers of Nigeria Plc, equally organised a befitting farewell programme for her. Ibadan held memories for Mama and her husband. There was

colour, there was panache. It was a day of sartorial elegance.

Days of orations…Tuesday, November 17 witnessed an assemblage

of orations at the Ikenne home of the Awolowos where there was another lying-in-state. The orations were rendered by Afenifere, Yoruba Unity Forum, Yoruba Council of Elders, members of the National Youth Service Corps and the United States arm of the Oodua Foundation.

This was equally the same on Thursday November 19, as members from universities across the country eulogised Mama and paid glowing tributes at her Ikenne residence. Each orator, imbued with that fluidity of verbal skillfulness, animated the venue with Mama's seemliness, sagacity, stateliness and self-

esteem.

HID 'resurrects' at presentation of biography On Wednesday, November 18, Ikenne came alive

again as Nigeria's former Vice-President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar led other dignitaries at the public presentation of In the Radiance of the Sage: The Life and Times of Mama HID Awolowo. The biography, written by Professor Wale Adebanwi, traced the turbulent but victorious trajectory of Mama's life.

HID came out in various lights of narrativisation. She became the raconteur's delight. Each speaker created an ambiance of reiterative fascination, holding the already enraptured audience in a telling effective.

Dance, drumbeats, tributes From Friday, November 20, through Tuesday,

November 24, 2015, Mama's residence and Ikenne township were transformed to an epicenter of the dramatic. Various age grades and other groups including family houses honoured her with traditional dances. The dancers clad in traditional outfits with matching beads danced to traditional drumbeats in honour of Mama Awolowo's ancestry.

Ikenne Development Association, Liyanju Family, Awolowo Family, Ligu-Ogodo-Adebowale Family, Sadeke Descendants, Ife Council of Chiefs, Remo Club 1937, Ogunde Theatre Group, various religious organisations, among others, poured encomiums on Mama in their various performances.

And she goes home in styleThe charm, razzmatazz, and glamour, on Wednesday,

25th November, 2015, culminated in what can best be referred to as the most memorable, important, and elegant goodbye given in Nigeria's recent history. For all the godliness, philanthropy, good-natured discipline, goodwill and inspiration that Chief (Mrs) Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo represented, Mama lived that others might live; she died in truth to the statement that the only worthy kind of death is one in which one lived for the good of all.

Covering HID's burial: A reporter's diary

MY experiences as Mama HID Awolowo's official reporter for the past 13 years were more than an honour; and covering the burial ceremonies for 11 straight days has also been a worthwhile experience.

Although the task was challenging, it has been a thing of pride and honour for me to have reported the activities from Sunday 15 November till the day of her committal to mother earth.

BY KEHINDE OYETIMI

The assignment afforded me more opportunity to build a relationship with Mama's children, Reverend (Mrs) Omotola Oyediran and Dr (Mrs) Olatokunbo Awolowo-Dosumu, who have both showed me affection and concern, wondering where I got the strength to carry out my assignments without any lapses, despite my fragile frame.

I will forever remember those beautiful moments we shared together. Mama's mental alertness was superb; every time I had cause to be in Ikenne for her assignment,

she would always remind me of our last discussion. One of such moments was the day I wore a very long skirt and blouse made of ankara fabric. Mama admired me, but said, “Yinka, who is your tailor? Why do you love wearing long dresses that will be sweeping all the streets of Ikenne? Or do you come with your car? Do you do the washing by yourself?”

My working years with her were full of fond memories that would forever be part of my life. I learnt hardwork, diligence and punctuality from her.

BY OLAYINKA OLUKOYA

Mama lying in state at her residence in Ikenne.

“Each orator, imbued withthat fluidity of verbal skillfulness,animated the venue with Mama'sseemliness, sagacity, statelinessand self-esteem.”

CHIEF DR (MRS) HID AWOLOWO | 1915 - 2015 | XVINIGERIA’S MOST INFORMATIVE NEWSPAPER

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Formerly Miss Ajani Oluseyi Adebukola, Mrs Baoku Oluseyi Adebukola And Olutola Oluseyi Oluwabukola now MRS AYOADE OLUSEYI OLUWABUKOLA. All former documents remain valid. First Bank, GTBank, Oyo SUBEB, IBSW LG UBE and general public take note.

CHANGE OF NAME

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1. From left, Pastor Dan Awusanya from South Africa; Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo and Pastor Ade Asekun.

2. From left, Vice-President Osinbajo, former Delta State governor, Dr Emmanuel Udu-aghan and Reverend (Mrs) Tola Oyediran.

3. From left, Mrs D. M. Adedayo, Mrs Bisi Osinbajo, Chief (Mrs) Abba Folawiyo and the General Overseer, Pastor E. A. Adeboye.

4. Pastor Adeboye praying for the family.5. Senior Special Assistant to Vice President on Media and Communication, Pastor

Laolu Akande; Mr Muyiwa Oduniyi, Mr Tola Asekun and Mr Simi Asekun.

6. Pastor Adeboye welcoming Dr Uduaghan (right). With them is the wife of Vice-Presi-dent Osinbajo, Dolapo.

7. Mr Adekunle Awolowo, Mr Olugbenga Awolowo and Mr Babatunde Adeyemi.8. From left, Mr Olumide Oyediran; his wife,Adaora; Mr Ladi Soyode and Mrs Bimbo.9. Students of African Foundation for Peace and Love Initiative, led by Reverend (Dr)

T.K.Oyeyemi, presenting gift to Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran.10. From left, Prince Ademola Aderemi, Mr Segun Awolowo, Vice-President Osinbajo, for-

mer Delta State governor, Dr Uduaghan, Mr Olumide Oyediran and others.

N2 Wednesday, 25 November, 2015PHOTOS: ALABA IGBAROOLA,

ALOLADE GANIYU,YEMI FUNSO-OKE

&D’TOYIN

PRIVATE PRAYER SESSION FOR THE FAMILY OF HID AWOLOWO BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE AT IKENNE

HID AWOLOWO (1915-2015)

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1. From left, Reverend (Mrs) Tola Oyediran; the Alakenne of Ikenne, Oba Adeyinka Onakade and Ambassador Tokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, dancing during the wWoro dance at the Alakenne Palace.

2. From left, Ambassador Awolowo Dosumu, Mrs Yejide Badmus, Funke Awolowo, Se-gun Awolowo and Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran.

3. Professor Kayode Oyediran flanked by grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Chief (Mrs) HID Awolowo.

4. From left, Seyi Awolowo, Ladi Soyode, Iranola Ayodeji and Ayo Subair.5. From left, Mrs Gbeke Balogun (nee Awolowo), Alhaji Abimbola Awofeso, Mr Segun

Awolowo, Mrs Morayo Sonowo and Mr Oke Adejimi David.6. From left, Feyisola Ayodeji, Leke Subair, Seyi Awolowo, Yinka Awolowo, Afolajimi Ayo-

deji and Obafemi Awolowo.7. From left, Titilayo Oduye, Ganiyat Bankole, Olufunke Idowu, Omolara Onakade, Mary

Adebiyi, Florence Odulami, Bunmi Taiwo and Esther Ajayi.8. Abidemi Akinsanya, Bose Kalejaiye, Ronke Adebayo, Titilayo Oduye and Pastor Yemisi

Durojaiye.9. Broadway Brass Band on display.10. Mrs Esther Ajayi embracing Reverend (Mrs) Oyediran.

O2 Wednesday, 25 November, 2015

PHOTOS: ALABA IGBAROOLA, &

D’TOYIN WORO DANCE FOR HID AWOLOWO IN IKENNE

HID AWOLOWO (1915-2015)