Prominent community leaders, political figures, traditional rulers, and residents of Ile-Ife on Thursday gathered to bid final farewell to Chief Olugbenga Owolabi, the Oluomo of Ile-Ife, whose life was marked by service, philanthropy, and grassroots development.
The burial ceremony, held over two days, reflected the wide respect the late business mogul as it had mourners across political, business, and traditional circles.
At the Christian wake-keep and service of songs took place on Wednesday, February 4, at Xela Hotel and Suites, Mayfair, Ile-Ife, family members and close associates paid tributes through hymns, prayers, and reflections on the life of the deceased.
Leading the church service on Thursday, Vicar of St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Aiyegbaju, Oja-Ife, Venerable Sunday Jewoola, reminded worshippers of the certainty of death and urged them to live purposeful lives anchored on faith, integrity, and service to humanity.
Venerable Jewoola described the late Oluomo as a dedicated Christa whose life “centered around service, philanthropy and community development.”
Family members described Owolabi as a loving husband, devoted father, and disciplined leader as widow of the deceased, Barrister Omolola Owolabi, spoke of his gentleness, care, and unwavering support throughout their more than four decades together, while children also eulogised their father as a visionary who set standards and instilled resilience, discipline and ambition in his family.
President of the Ife Development Board, Gbenga Adefaye, noted that the late Owolabi donated a hospital to the community and created employment opportunities through his businesses.
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, in an earlier condolence message, described Owolabi as a committed public servant and entrepreneur whose life was dedicated to societal development.
Following the church service, Chief Owolabi was laid to rest.
Who was Gbenga Owolabi?
Born on November 19, 1960, Owolabi began his career at Union Bank of Nigeria in 1980 and later studied at the Liverpool School of Banking before earning a postgraduate degree in International Business from South Bank University, London. In 1997, he founded the Kimeric Group of Companies, with interests in the oil and gas sector.
He served as Executive Chairman of Ife East Local Government between 2008 and 2011 and held the traditional title of Oluomo of Ile-Ife. He was widely known for his philanthropic efforts in healthcare and community development.
Chief Olugbenga Owolabi died on December 14, 2025, at the age of 65, after a brief illness. He is survived by his wife, children, and a grateful community.
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