•Inside the late sage’s house, mausoleum

By Owen Chamberlain Obaseki

On January 15, after commissioning the Remo Stars FC VS Ikorodu City FC match at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne, I had the immense privilege of witnessing history when I visited the revered residence of the late sage at Ikenne, my foremost hero and mentor.

I paid my respects at his final resting place, the majestic Awo’s Mausoleum, where our guide shared that his body was embalmed for 100 years.

I learned that a device that could bring his body out for all to see in its preserved state had malfunctioned. Lying beside him was Mama, his jewel of inestimable value, who passed away at the ripe age of nearly 100 years, just a few months shy.

I proceeded to the Efunyela Hall, a grand venue for meetings and important events, adorned with an impressive collection of photographs capturing pivotal moments in Papa’s life. The Sodipo Library, a treasure trove of knowledge, was another highlight, with books and newspaper clippings meticulously arranged, evoking a sense that Papa was still alive.

At the Museum, I saw the very clothes he wore on his last public outing, including Ada and Eben from Benin Kingdom, shoes, wig, and gown – a testament to his enduring legacy.

The convocation gowns from his numerous honorary doctorate degrees and awards were also on display.

I marveled at Papa’s 8-seater Mercedes, the trusty vehicle he used during his 1979 and 1983 campaigns, still intact and looking like new.

I was informed that Papa had generously donated the library to Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) in Ogun State, a lasting gift to future generations.

Throughout, the house was impeccably maintained, creating an atmosphere where it felt as though Papa was still alive, surrounded by memories and mementoes of a life well-lived.

I had a three-hour discussion with Papa and Mama’s last and only surviving child, a trained medical doctor, now widowed, Dr. (Mrs.) Tokunbo Awolowo-Dosunmu.

She regaled me with stories of their early days, Papa’s mysticism, and his love for God and being a devoted Christian, also having a chapel in his house.

The most interesting part of our 3-hour encounter was the fact that Mama HID sat on the owner’s corner of the car with Papa sitting on the other side.

Mama also sat on the head of the dining table, and the fact that Mama’s room could pass as the master’s bedroom in their house because it was way bigger than Papa’s room.

She still remembers him fondly, and I saw her break when she was discussing how Papa passed on nearly 40 years ago, and she laid on his body in disbelief.

She still regrets not coming to see her father the day before when he sent for her, saying he had something to discuss with her.

She confessed that she will never forgive herself.

We also discussed Mama HID, Papa’s jewel of inestimable value, who died a few months shy of her 100th centenary birthday celebration.

In all, she was full of love and admiration for her parents.

I thanked her profusely for her time and for allowing me to go on a tour of the whole house. I promised to write a book on Awo before his 40th memorial on May 9, 2027, and she graciously obliged my request.

To God be the glory, another one ticked off my bucket list!

•Chief Owen Chamberlain Obaseki JP is the Otaifoh of Uromi