By Bayo Famoroti
It was a somber atmosphere in Odo Ayedun, Ikole Local Government Area of Ekiti State, on Tuesday, as the remains of the Special Assistant on Mobilization to the Ekiti State Governor, Hon. Mrs. Ogundare Olusola, fondly called “Iya Olowo Lati Itapa,” were laid to rest amid tears and heartfelt tributes.
The late Olusola, who served at the Bureau of Community Communications, passed away last Thursday after a brief illness at the age of 56.
A Christian wake was earlier held in her honour on Monday at her Itapa residence before her body was committed to mother earth at her Odo Ayedun home. The burial service, conducted by the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), was attended by family members, government officials, community leaders, and sympathisers from across the state.
Leading the state government delegation, the Director General, Bureau of Community Communications, Mrs. Mary Omotosho, described the deceased as a passionate mobiliser and dedicated community leader.
She noted that Olusola’s voice and presence were well-known across radio stations in Ekiti for her commitment to community development and good governance advocacy.
“She will be remembered for her genuine commitment, loyalty, and brilliant contributions to public enlightenment and community growth,”
Omotosho said.
She also appreciated Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his fatherly support to the deceased during her lifetime and even after her demise, urging the people of the state to continue to pray for the bereaved family.
In her tribute, the Special Assistant on Gender Empowerment and Mobilization, Chief (Mrs.) Kemi Olaleye, described Olusola as a strong woman, a great personality, and a loyal appointee of the Oyebanji administration.
Also paying tribute, the Chairman of the Freelancers and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), Ekiti State Chapter, Comrade Afolabi-Olorunfemi Asorogbayi, said Olusola’s passing was a huge loss to the association.
“She was a member we will forever miss for her positive contributions. Our prayer is that God grants her eternal rest and comforts her children and grandchild,”* he said.
The late Hon. Mrs. Ogundare Olusola is survived by a child, a grandchild, and relatives.