Prominent Muslim clerics, family members, and friends held services in Ibadan, Oyo State, on Monday, to honor and bid farewell to Olori Tinuade Mathilda Ladoja (née Ayamolowo), the late wife of former Oyo State Governor and Otun Olubadan, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja. The revered matriarch passed away on October 14, 2024, at the age of 71.
The solemn prayer session was held at her husband’s residence on Ondo Street, Bodija, Ibadan. It marked the commencement of a week-long funeral program for the distinguished woman leader, business executive, and philanthropist.
A service of songs followed at 11 a.m. at the Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Worldwide, Rehoboth International Family Cathedral, Oke Ado, Ibadan. The event was officiated by the Pastor and Spiritual Head of CCC Worldwide, Rev. Mobiyina Friday Oshoffa, alongside other church leaders, according to a funeral announcement released over the weekend by Titilola Idakula and Bolatito Egwumba on behalf of the family.
Trailblazer in Faith and Leadership
Until her passing, Olori Ladoja was a high-ranking member of the Celestial Church of Christ and the only woman to serve on its Council of Pastors, one of the church’s highest decision-making bodies. She was also the Woman President of the Aladura Movement, an umbrella body of charismatic white garment churches. Her deep faith, leadership, and philanthropic endeavors earned her widespread admiration.
At 60, she surprised many by enrolling in a seminary, earning a degree in theology, and becoming Prophetess Mother Celestial. Her evangelical passion and commitment to the growth of the church were exemplary.
Series of Farewell Events
The funeral program spans multiple days and locations:
Tuesday, December 17: A service of songs will take place at Salem Evangelical Christ’s Cherubim and Seraphim Church, Ilupeju-Obanikoro, Lagos, at noon.
Wednesday, December 18: Another service of songs will hold at CCC Agidingbi Parish, Lagos, at 5 p.m.
Thursday, December 19: A Christian wake and tribute night will be held at the Police College, Ikeja, Lagos, at 5 p.m.
Friday, December 20: Lying-in-state from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., followed by a funeral service at the Bemil Chapel of Epiphany, Bemil Road, Ojodu-Berger, Lagos. Interment will follow immediately after.
Sunday, December 22: A thanksgiving service will take place at her home church, CCC Unity, Ikeja, Lagos.
Life and Legacy
Olori Ladoja was a professionally trained secretary and a widely traveled entrepreneur. She once worked with Southern Atlantic Oil Services before transitioning to the diplomatic service, where she served at the Nigerian Embassy in Cotonou, Republic of Benin. It was during her diplomatic tenure that she met her husband.
She is survived by her husband, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, and three daughters, two of whom were from a previous marriage.
Her exemplary life of faith, leadership, and service leaves a lasting legacy within her family, the Celestial Church of Christ, and the Aladura Movement.
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