By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

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Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has described his late mother as a woman who showed uncommon kindness and love to everyone around her, adding that she impacted many lives through her warmth, kindness, and diligence.

Oyebanji stated this at the First Baptist Church, Ikogosi-Ekiti, during the 14th memorial service in honour of his late mother, Chief (Mrs.) Esther Oyebanji, who died in 2011.

Speaking glowingly about his mother at the solemn event, which was attended by his siblings, family members, associates, community leaders, traditional rulers, and clerics, the governor said the event was organised to remember his late mother and to express appreciation to God and the people of Ikogosi for their unwavering support for the Oyebanji family since her passing.

In his brief remarks during the service, the governor also described his mother as an exceptional giver who lived her life for others, both family and non-family members. He added that her frankness endeared her to many.

He noted that during her lifetime, his mother dedicated herself to others, building an extensive network of relationships not just with blood relatives, but also with many whose lives she positively impacted.

“What we are doing today is simply a remembrance and a thanksgiving to God and the people of Ikogosi for their steadfastness and support. Though she is no longer with us, you have stood by us.

“There are two things about mummy: her love for everyone and her selflessness. She cared for everyone as though they were her own children. Even when she was in business, she never made much profit because she would always give away items to help others.

“Mummy gave her life for us. She walked many kilometres under the scorching sun to vote for my party during the Ribadu election. She was not a politician, but she believed she must support her son’s political journey. She returned home, fell ill, and never recovered from that. That’s why we established a foundation in her name—to keep her memory alive,” the governor stated.

In his homily, the President of the Ekiti Baptist Conference, Rev’d (Dr.) Emmanuel Aribasoye, urged everyone to live in the constant awareness that a day of judgment will come. He emphasized that people should invest their resources in propagating the work of God. Citing the generosity of the late Chief (Mrs.) Oyebanji, he noted that the memories of the righteous will forever linger in the hearts of those who benefited from their deeds.

Rev. Aribasoye added that the legacies people leave behind will speak volumes about their lives when they are gone, stressing the importance of living a life that makes a positive impact on others.

Prayers were later offered for the children, the family, the church, and the government of Ekiti State.

In her tribute, the wife of the governor, Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oyebanji, expressed gratitude to God for the life of her mother-in-law, describing her as a hardworking woman who toiled day and night to provide a good life for her children.

Reminiscing about his late wife, Pa Ezekiel Oyebanji thanked God for blessing him with a hardworking, intelligent, and caring woman who loved and supported him immensely in raising their children. Pa Oyebanji encouraged people to continue trusting and serving God, whom he described as the sole giver of life.

Presenting a tribute on behalf of the children, Mrs. Feyisike Oshowo said their mother deeply loved her husband and children. She described her as a kind and exceptional giver who always went the extra mile to offer her best to those around her.