The Olatinwo family has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with His Royal Majesty, Oba Mufutau Muhammad Gbadamosi Okikiola Esuwoye II, Ajagungbade I, the Olofa of Offa, following the death of his beloved mother, Alhaja Hawawu Awele Gbadamosi (fondly known as Iya Ijebu) who passed away on Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the age of 94.
In a condolence message signed by Chief (Mrs.) Sariyu Atinuke Oyawoye, the Yeyeluwa of Offa Land, on behalf of the Olatinwo family, the late matriarch was described as a symbol of grace, dignity, resilience, and unwavering dedication to family, faith, and the community.
The statement extolled the virtues of the late Alhaja Gbadamosi, portraying her as a woman of remarkable strength and wisdom whose legacy would endure not only within the royal household but throughout Offa and beyond.
“Iya Ijebu was a beacon of moral strength and compassion, a devout Muslim, and a nurturing mother whose impact was deeply felt by all who came in contact with her.
“Her support and guidance to His Royal Majesty, the Olofa of Offa, and her steadfast commitment to the development of the Offa community, stand as testaments to a life well lived,” the statement partly reads.
The Olatinwo family offered prayers for the repose of her soul, asking Almighty Allah (SWT) to forgive her shortcomings and grant her eternal rest in Al-Jannatul Firdaus.
“We stand in solidarity with His Royal Majesty, the Gbadamosi family, and the entire Offa community at this moment of mourning. May her memory continue to inspire and bless generations to come,” the statement concluded.
The Olatinwo family joins countless others in paying tribute to a remarkable woman whose life left an indelible mark on her people.
THE FULL STATEMENT IS REPRODUCED BELOW
With deep sympathy and a profound sense of loss, the Olatinwo family extends heartfelt condolences to His Royal Majesty, Oba Mufutau Muhammad Gbadamosi Okikiola Esuwoye II, Ajagungbade I, the Olofa of Offa, on the transition to glory of his revered mother, Alhaja Hawawu Awele Gbadamosi (Iya Ijebu), who departed this world yesterday, Saturday, April 5, 2025, at the age of 94.
The passing of Alhaja Hawawu Awele Gbadamosi marks the end of an era defined by grace, dignity, resilience, and unwavering commitment to family, faith, and the service of humanity.
As a matriarch of remarkable strength and wisdom, her legacy is etched in the hearts of many, not only within the royal household but also across the entire Offa community and beyond.
Her devotion to Islamic values, her community, and her role as a pillar of support to her children — especially His Royal Majesty, the Olofa of Offa — reflect a life lived with purpose, compassion, and integrity. Indeed, Iya Ijebu was a beacon of moral strength, whose presence enriched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
At this moment of mourning, we recognize the immense pain of losing a mother, particularly one of such stature, character, and closeness.
We stand in solidarity with His Royal Majesty and the entire Gbadamosi family, offering our prayers and support as they navigate this difficult period.
We also pray that Almighty Allah (SWT) grants Alhaja Hawawu Awele Gbadamosi Al-Jannatul Firdaus, forgives her shortcomings, and envelops her in His infinite mercy.
May He continue to strengthen the Olofa, the royal household, and the Offa community to bear this irreplaceable loss with fortitude and faith.
May her memory continue to be a source of inspiration and blessing.