By Precious Oluwole

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described the late Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki as a noble and virtuous woman whose life was marked by service to God and humanity.

He made this assertion at the weekend while attending the events of the funeral of late Madam Saraki in Lagos.

The late Chief Florence Morenike Saraki, mother of Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, a two-term Governor of Kwara State and former President of the Nigerian Senate, hailed from Owo in Ondo State.

Speaking during the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa said: “We are gathered here this day to bid a farewell and as well celebrate a noble and virtuous woman, a proud daughter of the ancient town of Owo, Ondo State, and a matriarch of the illustrious Saraki Dynasty of Ilorin, the late Chief Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki.

“Her transition on 18th June, 2024, at the ripe age of 88, marks the end of an epoch, and we are honoured to pay tribute to her remarkable life of service to God and humanity.

“We are sad as a State to have lost an illustrious daughter and a woman of impeccable character like the late Mrs. Saraki. On the other hand, we are also happy to be part of the ceremony of the exit of a dutiful wife and a great mother of exemplary character and candour who had left a great void which will be difficult to fill.

“As a proud daughter and Princess of Owo kingdom, she brought honour and distinction to our State through her life of service, compassion, warmth, hospitality, love, care, elegance, dignity, and resilience. She carried these traits with her throughout her life, touching countless lives and leaving a lasting impact on her environment.”

The event was attended by dignitaries from across the country, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio,
Governors, captains of industries, traditional and religious leaders.