By Ajao Stephen
The community of Ogbomoso and beyond is mourning the passing of a distinguished educator, devout Christian, and beloved community matriarch, Princess Mary Ebunola Olalonpe Awogbade, who passed on peacefully after a life of impactful service, aged 99.
Born on January 8, 1926, Princess Awogbade hailed from a noble lineage in Ogbomoso. Her father, Prince David Olaniyi Oyediran Ande Agbe, was of the Olugbon Compound, Okelerin, while her mother, Alice Abeo Olaniyi, belonged to the Olukotun Compound, Taraa.
Mary spent her early years in Jos, where her family had relocated for business. Her academic journey began there, though she initially faced opposition to her educational pursuit, as her father was reluctant to support girls’ education beyond Standard Three. However, young Mary’s determination, bolstered by the intervention of prominent elders like Professor Oyerinde and Pa Ayandele, eventually saw her complete Standard Six in 1947.
She later advanced her academic credentials at St. Luke’s Teachers’ Training College, Ibadan, where she earned a Grade II Teachers Certificate in 1970.
In 1953, she married Pa James Adewole Oyenike Awogbade of Ajigbotifa Compound, Isale Ora, Ogbomoso. Their union was blessed with children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
A Distinguished Career in Education
Mama Awogbade was best known for her decades-long teaching career that spanned seven schools across Ogbomoso, Iseyin, and Ibadan. Her service included stints at:
Okelerin Baptist School (1948–1952)
Saja Baptist School (1953–1955)
Baaki Baptist School (1955–1958)
Ijeru Baptist School (1959–1971), Ansarudeen Islamic School, Iseyin (1972–1974)
Islamic Mission School, Ibadan (1974–1976), ljeru Baptist School II (1976–1984)
Renowned for her nurturing approach, Mama Awogbade eschewed corporal punishment, earning the love and admiration of her pupils. Many of her former students, now successful professionals, continue to testify to her profound impact as both teacher and mother figure.
Entrepreneurial Ventures
In addition to her educational work, Mama was a successful entrepreneur. She trained as a tailor in Ibadan and became the first to sew uniforms for female students at the defunct Local Authority Teachers’ Training College (LATTC), Ogbomoso. She was also active in the jewellery trade, dealing in gold and coral beads — a business inherited from her aunt.
A tireless businesswoman, she became a wholesaler of food items such as beans, rice, yam flour, and maize, supplying to major schools in Iseyin and Okeho.
A Life Anchored in Faith
Princess Awogbade’s spiritual transformation began in 1943 when she embraced Christianity and was baptised by Rev. J. A. Adediran of Okelerin Baptist Church. From that moment, her faith journey deepened. She was active in hospital evangelism, thanks to her involvement with white missionaries, and maintained a close relationship with missionary Mrs. West, who played a role in her wedding.
Her service to the Nigerian Baptist Convention was remarkable. She served in multiple roles, including:
Chairperson, Good Women’s Group, Chairperson, Light of God’s Group, Usher and choir member, Okelerin Baptist Church, Chairperson, Girls’ Auxiliary (GA) and Lydia Auxiliaries
Drama Ministry member
Delegate to Baptist conventions across Nigeria
Even in her twilight years, Mama remained spiritually fervent. She requested home Bible studies when she could no longer attend church, often waking early to prepare for Sunday School lessons.
Legacy of Faith and Service
Her favourite Bible verses included:Jeremiah 33:3 – “Call unto me, and I will answer thee…”Luke 1:37 – “For with God nothing shall be impossible.”Exodus 20:8, 13, 14 – “Remember the sabbath day… Thou shalt not kill… Thou shalt not commit adultery.”
Among her cherished hymns were “Onigbagbo gbogbo wa eyi l’ere wa” and “Awon Angeli yó mọ mi.”
Mama Awogbade often prayed, “Lord, let me see You before I see death.” The family and community now celebrate her peaceful transition as the fulfilment of that prayer.
A Final Salute
Princess Mary Ebunola Awogbade’s life was a remarkable blend of resilience, service, and unwavering faith. She leaves behind a lasting legacy in education, entrepreneurship, and Christian ministry. Her church, family, former pupils, and community will continue to cherish her memory.
Saja Baptist Church and the Light of God’s Group have bid farewell to one of their most beloved members. May she rest in eternal peace, and may we all strive to meet again in glory.
According to the family source, the Christian Wake for the late Princess Mary Ojuolape will hold on Friday, 20th June 2025, at Saja Baptist Church, Transformation Cathedral, Ìsàlè Saja – Ìsàlè Òrá, Ogbomoso.
The Lying-in-State will take place on Saturday, 21st June 2025, at the family residence: AjigbotiJesu Compound, No. 1 Òkè Alapata Street, Oja Akande, Caretaker Area, Ogbomoso, from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM.
The Funeral Service will follow on the same day, Saturday, 21st June 2025, at 11:00 AM at Saja Baptist Church, Transformation Cathedral, Ìsàlè Saja – Ìsàlè Òrá, Ogbomoso.
Reception and Celebration of Life will take place immediately after the church service and interment at Havila Event Centre, Oke Orogun, Iresaadu Street, Ogbomoso.
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