Ex-Ogun first lady Olufunke Daniel loses mother

Chief Sabainah Ibironke Opawole (née Osoba), mother of former Ogun State First Lady, Yeye Olufunke Daniel, has died.

Olufunke Daniel is the wife of former Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel.

Mrs Opawole died on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the age of 93 after a brief illness, according to a statement issued on Sunday by the media aide to former Governor Gbenga Daniel, Steve Oliyide.

The statement read, “The Opawole and Daniel families mourn the passing of their beloved matriarch, Chief Mrs Sabainah Ibironke Opawole (née Osoba), who died peacefully after a brief illness on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at the age of 93.

“Born on April 23, 1933, to Princess Mariam Ladigbolu of the revered Ladigbolu family of the Oyo Kingdom and the late Rev. O. Osoba of Olodo Village, Abeokuta, the late Princess Sabainah lived a long and graceful life anchored in faith.

“She was a devoted Christian of the Baptist denomination until her passing, and her life stood as a quiet testament to devotion, family and enduring values.

“She is survived by several children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, including Her Excellency Yeye Olufunke Daniel, former First Lady of Ogun State and wife of Senator Otunba Gbenga Daniel.

“Her passing has drawn an outpouring of condolences from family, friends and associates across Ogun State and beyond, many of whom remember her as a woman of grace, strength and unshaken faith.”

The family said funeral arrangements would be announced in due course and appealed for prayers and understanding as they mourn their loss.