Iyalode of Yoruba in Ghana Dies Aboard Aircraft

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By: Moses Owopade, Accra

Nigerians, especially the Yoruba Community in Ghana are mourning the sudden death of Iyalode of Yoruba in Ghana Alhaja Chief Risikatu Vanderpure.

The family broke the news of her death.

The sad incident was said to have happened in an aircraft that was bringing her and members of her immediate family from Abuja to Ghana.

The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, Ojaja II who happened to be one of her closest family friends was said to have received the news of her death with rude shock.

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It would be recalled that the Ooni was the one who conferred the title of Iyalode of Yoruba in Ghana on her at a world class chieftaincy programme that saw over 30 distinguished Yoruba entrepreneurs in Ghana being honoured.

Since that event, Ooni has been close to the woman because of her strong disposition to the Oduduwa kingdom.

Narrating the way the issue happened, a top Yoruba figure and chief in Ghana, Alhaji Surakat Lawal said the plane was only 10 minutes from landing when the woman mysteriously passed on.

“There was no knowledge of any form of ailment. She suddenly developed heart problem and was unable to survive,” our correspondent gathered.

Alhaji Lawal said this would be a big blow to the Yoruba particularly those in living in Ghana. He confirmed that the body had been laid to rest according to Islamic rite.

The Ag President of the Nigerian community in Ghana, Chief Bayo Albert Asaolu who was not in the country sent a delegation led by the ANC General Secretary, Chief Bolanle Akintola to represent him. He told the family members that Alhaja Risi was not a mere personality.

Recently, the woman organised a national event where the Chief Imam of the Republic Of Ghana, His Eminence Alhaji Sharubutu was the Chief host.

Asaolu said the woman had used her influence to touch many people’s lives. He however, charged those who are still alive to use their position, wealth and influence to positively affect others.

He concluded by conveying the sympathy of all Nigerians in Ghana to the family. “I Pray that the almighty God will give the immediate family and all of us to bear the loss,” he prayed.