The ancient town of Erinmo-Ijesa in Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State has been thrown into mourning following the passing of its oldest known resident, Mama Lydia Bamigboye, popularly called Iya Sekere or Iya Asoju, at the remarkable age of approximately 121 years.
The Elerinmo-in-Council announced the passing of the respected centenarian in an official statement, describing her death as the end of a remarkable era in the history of Erinmo Kingdom.
According to the traditional council, Mama Bamigboye was widely regarded as the oldest living person in Erinmo-Ijesa, having witnessed the reigns of five different monarchs during her lifetime.
Her extraordinary longevity made her a living custodian of the kingdom's history, traditions, customs and cultural heritage.
The council disclosed that news of her passing was formally communicated by her son, Pastor Ebenezer Oluwasegun Bamigboye, popularly known as Oyinbo Jesu.
A WOMAN WHO WITNESSED FIVE KINGS
Mama Lydia Bamigboye was more than just an elderly woman in Erinmo-Ijesa. She represented a rare connection between the kingdom's past and present.
Having lived through several generations and witnessed the reigns of five Elerinmos, she possessed invaluable knowledge of the community's historical development, traditional practices and cultural evolution.
Until her death, the respected matriarch remained an active member of the Elders' Council, where she consistently offered support to the Elerinmo-in-Council and participated in traditional activities without discrimination.
Her dedication to the traditional institution earned her admiration and respect across the kingdom.
In its tribute, the Elerinmo-in-Council described her as a symbol of longevity, resilience, wisdom and the enduring heritage of the Erinmo people.
"Her departure marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of our community. She was a living repository of our traditions, customs, values, and collective memories, having witnessed generations come and go," the council stated.
The traditional council further noted that her wealth of experience, historical knowledge and contributions to the preservation of Erinmo's cultural identity would be greatly missed.
ELERINMO-IN-COUNCIL CALLS FOR BEFITTING BURIAL
While expressing gratitude to Almighty God for Mama Bamigboye's exceptionally long life, the Elerinmo-in-Council extended heartfelt condolences to her children, the entire Bamigboye family and the people of Erinmo Kingdom.
The council urged residents to celebrate her remarkable life and prepare to give the departed matriarch a befitting funeral.
Her passing, according to the council, serves as a reminder of the importance of honouring elders, preserving cultural heritage and sustaining the values that unite the community.
For Erinmo-Ijesa, the death of Mama Lydia Bamigboye is not merely the loss of its oldest known resident but the departure of a woman whose lifetime spanned generations of the kingdom's history.
At approximately 121 years old, Iya Sekere has bowed out, leaving behind memories of five royal reigns and a legacy deeply rooted in Erinmo-Ijesa's cultural heritage.
May her soul rest in perfect peace.
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