Ado-Ekiti was thrown into mourning on Tuesday evening following the death of a respected businesswoman, community leader and devout Muslim, Mama Rabiat Abeke Ogunsakin, popularly known as Mama Tafa, at the age of 89.
Mama Ogunsakin died after a brief illness on Tuesday, September 23, 2026.
For more than six decades, Mama Tafa was a familiar and respected presence at the popular Erekesan Market in Ado-Ekiti, where she built a reputation as a successful textile dealer and a woman of strong character, resilience and enterprise.
Beyond her business, Mama Ogunsakin was deeply involved in the life of her community, particularly in the Dallimore area of Ado-Ekiti, where she was a respected chieftain of the Ratibi Mosque.
A devout Muslim, she was known for her commitment to her faith and community service, earning the respect and affection of those who encountered her over the years.
Mama Tafa was married to the late Alhaji Bello Shola Ogunsakin, a former Baba Adini of Ado-Ekiti, who died on February 10, 1996.
Despite the loss of her husband, she devoted herself to raising her family and sustaining the values of hard work, faith and service that defined her life.
She is survived by her children, including Hammed Ademola Animasaun, a seasoned investment professional; Mustapha Adekunle Ogunsakin, a veteran journalist; and Dr Aliu Akintunde Ogunsakin, a medical practitioner. Her son, Rasheed Animasaun, predeceased her.
She is also survived by several grandchildren, including Mr Tosin Animasaun, Dr Ajoke Ogunsakin and Barrister Ayomide Ogunsakin, as well as other members of her extended family.
Her death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the life of a woman who spent more than 60 years in commerce while remaining deeply connected to her faith, family and community.
Mama Ogunsakin was buried yesterday Thursday, September 24, 2026, at her residence in Ajowa, Dallimore, Ado-Ekiti, in accordance with Islamic rites.
She is survived by her children, grandchildren, relatives and a wide circle of friends and community members who will remember her for her longevity, industry, devotion to family and service to her community.
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