Ogun State governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, has announced the passage into glory of Chief Mrs Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo, widow of the first Premier of Western Region of Nigeria, Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
Mama HID passed away peacefully at about 3:15 p.m. on Saturday, 19th September, 2015.
In a press statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Taiwo Adeoluwa, the governor described the death of the matriarch of the Awolowo family as a great loss.
He however said Mama’s exit deserved celebration because her life and times were noble and golden.
“This was an exemplary life that truly ran its full course,” the governor said.
“Mama HID stood by her husband like the Rock of Gibraltar throughout the tough political career of the foremost nationalist and leader of the Action Group and Unity Party of Nigeria. She was indeed a ‘jewel of inestimable value’ as was fondly described by Chief Obafemi Awolowo,” the statement said.
According to Amosun, “Nigeria has lost a role model of distinction, a highly disciplined and principled woman, a trustworthy ally and dependable politician who equally made her mark in the business world.”
Amosun recalled that following the formation of the United Progressive Grand Alliance (UPGA) in 1964 between the Action Group (AG) and National Council of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC), Mama stood in for Chief Awolowo who was then in prison in the hope that she would contest the federal election and upon victory step down for her husband in a by-election in order for the late sage to realise his political dream.
“In spite of the political vicissitudes of the First Republic, Mama HID toured the entire country with her husband campaigning in the Second Republic. She was a woman of valour and a friend indeed,” Amosun added.
The governor urged the younger generation of women to follow in the footsteps of Mama HID.
Mrs Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo (née Adelana) was born in Ikenne on November 25, 1915.
Her transition came at a time preparations were in top gear by the state government for a befitting centenary celebration. We give God all the glory.
May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace.