Madam Lucia Onabowale Onabanjo, wife of the first civilian governor of Ogun State, Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, has died at the age of 100. Her passing was announced by her family on Tuesday, a day after she died on Monday, January 11.
The news was confirmed in a statement signed by her daughter, Mrs. Olubukunola Onabanjo, who is the Chairman of the Ogun State Local Government Service Commission. The family described her death as a moment of deep sorrow but also one of gratitude to God for a long and fulfilled life.
According to the statement, “The family of Chief Victor Olabisi Onabanjo, former Governor of Ogun State, announces with deep sorrow, yet with gratitude to Almighty God, the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Chief (Mrs) Lucia Onabowale Onabanjo (1925–2026) was called to glory on Monday, January 11.”
The family added that they were thankful for the enduring legacy of love, strength, and faith that she left behind. They also prayed that her soul would rest in perfect peace. As of the time of filing this report, details of her funeral arrangements had not yet been made public.
Madam Lucia Onabanjo was the wife of the late Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, a prominent Nigerian journalist, politician, and statesman. He served as the first civilian governor of Ogun State from October 1979 to December 1983 during Nigeria’s Second Republic. His administration is still remembered for its focus on education, rural development, and public service.
As the wife of the governor, Madam Lucia Onabanjo played the role of First Lady of Ogun State during a critical period in the state’s early history. Although she largely stayed away from the spotlight, she was known to be supportive of her husband’s political career and public service.
Those who knew her described her as a quiet but strong woman who valued family, faith, and community. She was regarded as a pillar of support to her husband during his years in office and after he left government.
Born in 1925, Madam Onabanjo lived through many important moments in Nigeria’s history, including the colonial era, independence in 1960, military rule, and the return to civilian government. Her long life gave her a unique place as a witness to the nation’s growth and challenges over the decades.
Chief Olabisi Onabanjo, her husband, was one of the key political figures of the old Western Region and later Ogun State. Before becoming governor, he was a well-known journalist and a close associate of Chief Obafemi Awolowo. His election in 1979 marked the beginning of civilian leadership in Ogun State after years of military rule.
During his time as governor, Chief Onabanjo was praised for his commitment to education and social development. Many schools and public institutions in Ogun State benefited from policies introduced during his administration. After leaving office in 1983, he remained active in national discussions until his death in 1990.
Madam Lucia Onabanjo continued to live a private life after her husband’s passing. She focused on her family and was widely respected as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Family sources say she remained strong in faith and deeply committed to family values throughout her life.
Her daughter, Mrs. Olubukunola Onabanjo, who signed the statement announcing her death, is currently serving as the Chairman of the Ogun State Local Government Service Commission. This reflects the family’s continued involvement in public service at the state level.
The death of Madam Lucia Onabanjo has drawn sympathy from many in Ogun State and beyond, especially those who remember the years when her husband led the state. Political leaders, traditional rulers, and residents have described her passing as the end of an era.
In Nigerian society, reaching the age of 100 is seen as a rare blessing, and many have described her long life as a testimony of grace. Religious leaders have also noted that living to such an age is often celebrated as a sign of fulfilment and divine favour.
As Ogun State mourns her passing, many residents are reflecting on the early days of the state and the leaders who helped shape its foundation. Madam Lucia Onabanjo’s life is closely linked to that history, not only as the wife of the first civilian governor but also as a quiet supporter of leadership and service.
Although she did not hold any public office, her role as a supportive spouse and family matriarch earned her respect across generations. Her life story highlights the often unseen contributions of spouses of political leaders, especially during Nigeria’s early years of democratic governance.
The family has said that funeral plans will be announced in due course. Until then, friends, relatives, and well-wishers continue to send messages of condolence to the Onabanjo family.
Madam Lucia Onabanjo is survived by her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her death marks the close of a long and meaningful life, leaving behind memories of love, faith, and quiet strength that will continue to be cherished by her family and the people of Ogun State.
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