Nineteen years ago, the world of Hon. Oluomo Segun Olulade was shattered by the devastating news of the passing of his beloved mother, fondly called Iya Taju. Though she was 70 years old at the time, to her last-born son, she was full of the vigor and resilience of a woman in her prime. Her life was a testament to selflessness and sacrifice, as she toiled tirelessly to uplift those around her.
In a heartfelt tribute to his late mother, Hon. Olulade reflected on the indelible mark she left on his life and the values she instilled in him. “Maami, you left us without saying goodbye,” he wrote. “Nevertheless, you’re never dead to us; your memories are as fresh as the air we breathe.”
Recalling her profound influence, Hon. Olulade described Iya Taju as the anchor of his character and values. “You taught me about giving, kindness, forgiveness, courage, confidence, independence, teamwork, discipline, the power of love, and most importantly, the power of service to God and humanity,” he shared. These lessons have become the guiding principles of his life and public service.
Seven years after her passing, the family was moved to honor her in an extraordinary way. They exhumed her remains to relocate her to a more befitting resting place. To their amazement, her body was found intact, a testament to the purity and grace of her life. “Even in death, you made us proud of how you lived your life,” he recalled.
Hon. Olulade credits his mother’s legacy for much of his success. “Everywhere I go, your good deeds help me. Thank you for laying a good legacy for us,” he said. Her life, defined by service, love, and dedication, continues to inspire him to uphold her values in his personal and professional endeavors.
As he commemorates the 19th anniversary of her passing, Hon. Olulade expressed his undying love and gratitude. “Sun re ooo, Maami, Iya Taju. We will forever love you.”
For Hon. Olulade, the memories of Iya Taju remain evergreen, a source of strength and inspiration. Though her physical presence is missed, her spirit and teachings live on in the hearts of those she touched, particularly her last-born son, who carries her legacy forward with pride.
Read the full text of his tribute below:
19 Years Ago, Maami You Left Us
Exactly 19 years ago, I received the heartbreaking news that my mum had passed away. Yes, she was 70 years old, but to me, her last-born child, she was still in her thirties. She had endured so much to ensure that those around her could live better lives, but sadly, she did not stay long enough to witness the fruits of her labor fully blossom.
Maami, you left us without saying goodbye. Nevertheless, you are never truly gone to us. Your memory remains as fresh as the air we breathe.
Known as Iya Taju, you were my greatest influence. You taught me the essence of giving, kindness, forgiveness, courage, confidence, independence, inspiration, teamwork, discipline, love, and, most importantly, service to God and humanity.
Maami, seven years after your demise, the necessity of public service you instilled in us prompted us to relocate your body from where you were originally buried. Even in death, you made us proud of the life you lived, as we found your body in the same state as when you were laid to rest seven years earlier.
Everywhere I go, your good deeds continue to pave the way for me. Thank you for laying a strong legacy for us to follow.
Sun re ooo, Maami, Iya Taju.
We will love you forever.
I am Eleniyan.
We are Eleniyan. Winning is our culture because God is involved.
Be inspired. Be involved. God is involved.
