It was a day of joy, honour, and thanksgiving in Iperu, Ogun State, as the ancient town came alive to celebrate the 90th birthday of Chief (Mrs.) Victoria Olaitan Abiodun, the beloved mother of Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun.
The grand celebration drew an impressive array of dignitaries from politics, industry, and royalty, who gathered to pay glowing tributes to the matriarch — a woman whose life of grace, faith, and service continues to inspire generations.
The thanksgiving service held at St. James Anglican Church, Iperu, was graced by the crème of Nigeria’s political and traditional leadership. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, while Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas led a federal delegation to the event.
Also in attendance were Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara), and Hope Uzodinma (Imo), among others.
The celebration also reunited Nigeria’s political elders, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Ogun governors Aremo Olusegun Osoba and Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, Chief James Ibori, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi), and former Speaker Dimeji Bankole.
Royal fathers, led by the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, also paid their respects, describing Mama Abiodun as “a mother of the nation whose values reflect true Yoruba womanhood.”
As part of the festivities, the Omoluabi Movement, a socio-political group dedicated to promoting good governance and community development, hosted a special reception in Mama Abiodun’s honour at the Ajadeh Events Centre, Iperu, where over 10,000 admirers converged in celebration.
The atmosphere was electric as gospel-juju maestro Dr. Yinka Ayefele (OJA) serenaded guests with soul-lifting tunes that kept the crowd on their feet.
In his remarks, the Convener of the Omoluabi Movement, Mr. Armstrong ’Tope Akintunde, described Mama Abiodun as “a rare gem, a true matriarch, and a blessing to Remoland and Ogun State.”
“It is every parent’s prayer to live long enough to see their children flourish and make them proud. Mama Abiodun has not only witnessed that but has become a living testimony of God’s faithfulness. She is one in a million — a mother to all, whose legacy of kindness and discipline continues to inspire us,” Akintunde said.
Also speaking, the General Coordinator of the Movement, Hon. Segun Kaka, noted that the event transcended family ties.
“This is not just the Abiodun family’s celebration; it is a collective thanksgiving for a woman who represents the very best of our values as a people,” he stated.
The celebration brimmed with admiration and heartfelt prayers as guests eulogized the nonagenarian for her enduring faith, community spirit, and life of service.
At 90, Chief (Mrs.) Victoria Olaitan Abiodun stands tall as a beacon of virtue — her life defined by compassion, courage, and character. Her story remains a shining example to mothers, leaders, and the younger generation across Ogun State and beyond.
