Yeye Hannah Idowu Dideolu (H.I.D) Awolowo, the late wife of former Premier of the Western Region, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, was buried beside her husband yesterday at Ikenne, Ikenne LGA of Ogun State.

The funeral service was held at Our Saviour’s Anglican Church, Kehinde Sofola Way, Ikenne where the Archbishop, Metropolitan and Primate of all Nigeria Anglican Communion, the Most Reverend Nicholas Okoh, in his sermon, described her as a staunch supporter and builder.

“It is not every woman that an indomitable man like the sage, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, could describe as a jewel of inestimable value. She was a grassroots leader. She was a courageous woman. She was not overwhelmed by grief having lost three of her children ‎in her lifetime. She was a woman of strength and courage,” he said.

The cleric said he had the assurance that Mama Awolowo was enjoying peaceful rest.

President Muhammadu Buhari arrived at about 2.00pm and joined other dignitaries at the residence for the burial. Vice President Yemi Osinbajo was also there with his wife.

Senate President, Bukola Saraki, arrived at about 10:16am with some senators and members of the House of Representatives. The burial took place at about 2.00pm. Former leaders including Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, retired General Yakubu Gowon, Chief Ernest Shonekan and retired Gen. Oladipo Diya were at the church service.

Other dignitaries include National Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Oluremi, businessman Aliko Dangote, present and former governors as well as ministers.

There was heavy security in the town, as schools and markets were closed in the town and neighbouring towns including Sagamu and Remo-North.  The Ogun State government had announced the closure of all markets and public schools as a mark of respect for the deceased.