Lucia Onabanjo legacy praised by Reuben Fasoranti for her family support and community impact at age 100

Reuben Fasoranti, National Leader of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation Afenifere, has praised the late Lucia Onabanjo for her unwavering support of her family and her positive impact on society.

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The statement was released on Thursday, 15 January 2026, by the organisation’s National Publicity Secretary, Jare Ajayi, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Lucia Onabanjo, who passed away on Monday, 11 January 2026, at the age of 100, was the widow of Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, the first civilian Governor of Ogun State from October 1979 to December 1983.

Fasoranti recalled that Lucia Onabanjo carried herself with dignity and humility before and during her husband’s political tenure. “All through the professional and political career of her late husband, Mama stood firmly.

She managed the home front in such a manner that enabled her husband to excel both in his journalistic career and in public service as a politician,” he said.

He further noted that her steadfast support contributed significantly to Chief Onabanjo’s success and added that her alignment with the philosophy of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo allowed for meaningful political engagement.

“She stood firmly with her husband without interfering negatively in his political engagements. She was a model as a wife and mother,” Fasoranti stressed.

The Afenifere leader highlighted her role during periods of political persecution, especially following the 1983 military coup, saying she ensured her family remained protected and resilient.

“On behalf of the entire Afenifere family and Yorubas generally, we extend our condolences to the immediate and extended families of the Onabanjos and pray for the peaceful repose of the soul of the late matriarch,” Fasoranti added.

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Lucia Onabanjo’s life continues to be remembered as an example of dedication to family, community, and the promotion of social values that uplifted those around her.