Encomiums as Imo Police Commissioner, Lakanu buries in-law

The hierarchy of the Nigeria Police and other dignitaries from across the country and beyond converged on the city of Sagamu, Ogun State, on Friday, as one of Nigeria’s most cerebral police officers and Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, Mr. Taiwo Lakanu, buried his mother-in-law, Princess Omolara Oyindamola Solarin, who died on August 15, at the age of 80.

The ceremony started with a well-attended funeral service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul, Makun, Sagamu, followed by a civic reception at the Remo Traditional Council Hall, in the Itaoba area of the town.

In her tribute to her late mother, Lakanu’s wife and the deceased’s eldest child, Omowunmi, described her mother as “my first teacher, my first confidant, my first friend, my first guide and my first priest.”

She further described her as a “very strict, yet loving woman, who instilled so much discipline” in her children.In his own tribute, Lakanu described the deceased as “a virtuous woman, who cherished family values and raised her children under very strict Christian values”.

He added: “My late mother-in-law was, indeed, a good woman, who was full of life and ever grateful for little things. She lived a life worthy of emulation and served as a great inspiration to many. No doubt, her life was a fulfilled one.”The deputy governor, Prince Eze Madumere, led the delegation of the Imo State government.

The late Omolara was a retired teacher, whose career began at the Methodist School, Agodi, Ibadan, Oyo State, in 1959. She dedicated her later years to social service and community development and was an active member of the National Council of Women Societies until her death.

Apart from Omowunmi, she was blessed with four other children, including, Tiwalade Solarin, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Olutimehin, Damilola Solarin and Mrs. Oluwakemi Awodein, as well as grandchildren.