Obasanjo, Emir of Kano, Amosun, others honour Yemi Kolapo at Daughter’s Wedding
By: Lauretta Fagbohun, Abeokuta.
The ancient city of Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, came alive on Saturday as two prominent families that of the Iya Suna of Egbaland, Dr. (Mrs.) Yemi Kolapo, and retired Brigadier General Moshood Jimoh joined their children, Faisah Kolapo and Hakeem Jimoh, in marriage.
The colorful Nikkah ceremony, held at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library Marquee, blended love, tradition, and faith, attracting an array of eminent personalities from across Nigeria.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Emir of Kano, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola, and former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun. Others included Senator Shuaib Salisu, Hon. Oladipupo Adebutu, Bashorun Dele Momodu, Mr. Tunde Rahmon (SSA to President Tinubu), Mrs. Bola Obasanjo, Dr. Reuben Abati, Otunba Segun Showunmi, and former NUJ National President, Chris Iziguzor.
The religious rites were led by the Chief Imam of Egbaland, Sheikh Saadalat Bamgbola, with the Mufti of Ilorin, Sheikh Farooq Onikijipa, and the Chief Imam of Gbagura, Sheikh (Prof.) Kamaldeen Balogun, also present. Sheikh Balogun delivered a soul-lifting lecture on marital responsibilities, urging the couple to embrace patience, loyalty, and mutual respect.
In his goodwill message, the Emir of Kano advised the couple to anchor their home on compassion and love. “In everything you do in marriage, ask yourself if it is something you would do to someone you truly love. We pray to Allah to bless your union,” he said.
Both parents expressed deep emotions as they gave out their children in marriage. Brigadier General Jimoh (rtd.) thanked God for making the day possible, while Dr. Kolapo described her daughter as a “lovely soul” she would dearly miss, urging the couple to “live in peace, shut out outsiders, and grow together in love.”
The celebration drew a cross-section of society, including political leaders, military officers (serving and retired), Nollywood actors, journalists, and Islamic scholars. Former Governor Amosun described the occasion as “blissful,” praying that the couple’s children would someday replicate the day.
Chairman of the reception, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola, likened marriage to a journey from “fantasy to reality.” He emphasized the values of mutual respect and understanding, stressing that “men appreciate respect more than love, while women thrive on love and emotions.”
The evening climaxed with musical performances by Fuji legend, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate), who thrilled guests with evergreen tunes, while Nollywood stars, including Adebayo Salami, Fathia Balogun, Madam Saje, and Doyin Kukoyi, added glamour to the vibrant ceremony.
