Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of former First Lady of Ogun State, Lucia Onabanjo.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, also the Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum, commiserated with the family, the government and the people of Ogun State.

Mrs Onabanjo, the widow of the late Olabisi Onabanjo, the first civilian Governor of Ogun State, died 100.

A statement on Wednesday by the Lagos State Governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, described the late Ms Onabanjo as “a woman of impact who rendered selfless service to humanity and left behind a legacy of dedication, humility and compassion.

“On behalf of my wife, Ibijoke, the government and people of Lagos State, I commiserate with my brother and Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, the government and people of Ogun State, and the Onabanjo family on the transition of Chief (Mrs) Lucia Onabowale Onabanjo.”

Mr Sanwo-Olu noted that the late former first lady distinguished herself as a committed educationist and nation builder.

He stated, “Mama Onabanjo led a fulfilled and impactful life. She was a devoted teacher for over two decades and touched many lives in Lagos and Zaria, mentoring and shaping generations of young Nigerians. She played a supportive and stabilising role during her husband’s tenure as governor. 

“She served Ogun State passionately as the wife of one of the most respected political leaders of the Second Republic. She was a reliable and committed partner who supported former Governor Olabisi Onabanjo in delivering dividends of democracy to the people between 1979 and 1983.”

The governor prayed for the repose of her soul and strength for the bereaved.

He added that “as we mourn her departure, I pray that Almighty God grants the Onabanjo family, the people of Ijebuland, and the government and people of Ogun State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

(NAN)