Oba Ajijola Bids Farewell To Late Father, Recounts His Final Moments At Burial Ceremony

By Babawale Solomon

Eko Hot Blog reports that various dignitaries, including traditional and political leaders, on Saturday, graced the final burial ceremony of Late Omo Oba Shaffy Adele Ajijola as the Olu of Araromi Eleranigbe, Oba (Dr) Hameed Adejoro Ajijola, bid a final farewell to his father.

The burial ceremony of the late Omo Oba Ajijola, aged 84, held at the Jubilee Chalet off Obafemi Awolowo Road in Epe, Lagos State.

In an interview with Eko Hot Blog, Oba Ajijola expressed his gratitude for the preservation of life and the manner in which Late Omo Oba Ajijola had lived.

The monarch recounted the final moments with his father, revealing that his father was at peace near the end of his life.

“No one would love to lose their parents, no matter how old. But I thank God for the preservation of life and for the kind of life he lived,” he said.

“When he died, he was at my house, and he initially had a sight problem. I would bring doctors to treat him at home, but after a while, he told me not to bother with his treatment as it persisted. He felt it was time to leave the world.

“I wanted to take him to LASUTH, but I was told he was okay; it was just time for him to leave this world. I saw him 20 minutes before he passed away. He knew it was time, and when it’s time for death, there’s nothing anyone can do about it but to pray.”

Earlier, the burial ceremony commenced with HRM Oba Muideen Babatunde Balogun, the Onisolu of Solu-Alade Kingdom in Ibeju-Lekki Area of Lagos, offering the opening prayer. Following the imam and a pastor, the ceremony established an atmosphere of unity and reverence, transcending religious boundaries.

An introduction of guests, including kings from various kingdoms around Ibeju-Lekki, followed.

Notable among the monarchs were HRM Oba Mufutau Adewunmi, the Ogunfayo of Iwerekun, and HRM Oba Wasiu Abdulrazaq Olasunkanmi Waliu Oguntolu, the Paramount Ruler of Ibeju-Lekki Kingdom and the Onibeju of Ibeju Land, amongst others, representing a spectrum of traditions and heritage.

The ceremony also witnessed a rendition of Ewi, an intricate form of Yoruba poetry, adding a touch of cultural richness to the gathering.

The guests were further treated to the enchanting melodies of a live band, which provided a harmonious backdrop to the event.

As the ceremony continued, the atmosphere gradually shifted towards celebration. People reveled and feasted, immersing themselves in the joy of the moment. The kings, resplendent in their royal attire, graced the dance floor to the captivating rhythms of the live band, adding a regal touch to the festivities.

The family, accompanied by well-wishers, joyously joined the dance, with the air filled with the rhythmic sound of traditional drums and ululations.

It was a moment of unity, cultural richness, and profound reflection on a life well-lived, as Late Omo Oba Ajijola found his final resting place amidst the embrace of those who cherished his memory.

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