By James Ogunnaike
Former Ogun State First Lady, Yeye Olufunke Daniel, has lost her mother, Chief Mrs. Sabainah Ibironke Opawole (née Osoba).
Mrs. Opawole passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 2, 2026, following a brief illness. She was 93.
The deceased, whose passing has thrown the Opawole and Daniel families into mourning, was described as a devoted Christian, respected matriarch, and a woman whose life was marked by humility, faith, and unwavering commitment to family values.
Born on April 23, 1933, Opawole was the daughter of Princess Mariam Ladigbolu of the revered Ladigbolu family of the Oyo Kingdom and the late Reverend O. Osoba of Olodo Village, Abeokuta.
A lifelong member of the Baptist Church, she remained steadfast in her Christian faith until her death, earning the admiration of family members, friends, and members of her community for her exemplary lifestyle and compassionate disposition.
She is survived by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, including Yeye Olufunke Daniel, wife of former Governor of Ogun State and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.
Confirming the development, the family expressed gratitude to God for her fulfilled life and the enduring legacy she leaves behind.
“Our beloved mother lived a long, fulfilled and exemplary life dedicated to God, her family and humanity. While we mourn her passing, we are comforted by the remarkable values she instilled in all who came in contact with her and the lasting impact of her life,” the family said in a statement.
The family also appealed for prayers and understanding during this period of mourning.
“We appreciate the outpouring of love, prayers and support from friends, associates and well-wishers. Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course,” the statement added.
Since news of her passing emerged, tributes have continued to pour in from political associates, community leaders, family friends and well-wishers across Ogun State and beyond, who remembered Opawole as a woman of dignity, grace, strength and unwavering faith.
