Chief Oluwole Awolowo Predicted His Death, I’ll Die At 70

It emerged yesterday that the scion of the Awolowo family, Chief Oluwole Awolowo who passed on in London hospital on Wednesday evening had long predicted his death. Meanwhile, April 19 has been fixed for the funeral of the late publisher of the Nigerian Tribune. A relation of the deceased, Mr. Tolu Awobodu revealed the death predicted during a condolence visit to the Ikenne home of the Awolowos yesterday.

Awobodu who was the thirteenth people to sign the condolence register which was opened early yesterday wrote: `’You told me and my children who are staying with you, Tutu and Toyin that when you are 70 years, you will die. Why? R.I.P.’’ A family member who pleaded anonymity confided in Daily Sun that the family had tentatively fixed Friday April 19 for the funeral which will hold in Ikenne. This is against the position of one of the children of the deceased , Yejide who was quoted as saying that her father would be buried next week.

The Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun who also joined other mourners wrote in the condolence register: ‘’I really don’t know what to say or write. Despite our grief, we thank God Lord. He gives and takes. “We can’t question or query Him. May the good Lord grant you eternal rest and may He continue to give Mama good health, and comfort him too’’ President Goodluck Jonathan in his condolence message which was delivered by his adviser on Research and documentation,

Oronto Douglas described Awolowo as a great son of Nigeria.” His words: “Chief Oluwole Awolowo lived his life in the service of the people. He was a quiet philanthropist and an exemplary leader who impacted on the lives of those who came in contact with him positively. He was amiable, jovial and down to earth. We will all miss him.” The Senator representing Ogun East Senatorial District, Senator Adegbenga Kaka said the deceased was a gentleman, harmless and kind to all. General Oladipo Diya in his condolence said,”

It is sad, but in everything the Bible tells us to give thanks. We thank God for his life. May God Almighty grant him eternal rest.” The Bishop of Remo Diocese (Anglican Communion), The Right Reverend (Dr) Olusina Fape, in his tribute said the death of the Tribune publisher was a great loss to him and the Diocese. “His death to me as a person is a great loss.

His encouragement and work in the ministry especially the part he played where he was still much active at Obafemi Awolowo Memorial Anglican Church (OAMAC) here in Ikenne. Others included Gen. Oladipo Diya (rtd), Prince Bola Ajibola, Professor Timothy Ogunlesi, Ogun State Secretary of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Alhaji Abimbola Awofeso.

Sympathisers also included the Alakene of Ikenne-Remo, Oba Adeyinka Onakade, representatives of the Ooni of Ife, led by Apetumodu of Ipetumodu, Oba Elijah Adegoke, Sir. Olaniwun Ajayi, Justice Owolabi Sonoiki (rtd) and Chief GOK Ajayi and wife among several others.