In the heart of Lagos, Nigeria, a city known for its constant hustle and bustle, a moment of pause was observed. This pause was filled with a melody of respect and remembrance that echoed through the city’s busy streets. Over the span of two remarkable days, Dr. Mrs. Oluwafunmi Olagunju, a respected director at Hurlag Technologies Limited, masterfully arranged a magnificent send-off for her dear father, Pa Phillips Adebayo Abiona.
This event, a grand display of affection and reverence, swiftly became a hot topic, attracting the attention of political leaders, business magnates, and high-ranking individuals from Nigeria and beyond.
The solemn melody commenced on April 25th with a heartfelt Christian Wake Keep at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, a peaceful haven located in the serene heart of Oke-Ira, Aguda Titun, Ogba, Lagos. Here, family and friends assembled in a unified chorus of respect, their voices merging in a touching tribute that beautifully illustrated the life of the late patriarch.
Their prayers filled the sacred church, a testament to a life well-lived. The event was attended by a host of distinguished personalities, including the former First Lady of Oyo State, Chief Mrs. Ladoja, Former Deputy Governor of Oyo state Amb Taofeek Oladejo Arapaja, among others, their presence adding a touch of solemnity to the occasion.
The grand conclusion took place on April 26th, 2024, a day that began with a moving lying in state, a silent homage to a life well-lived. This was followed by a funeral service at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church, where the Bishop delivered a stirring sermon encapsulating the essence of the late Pa Abiona. The church choir contributed their voices to the tribute, their songs creating a mosaic of emotional Christian hymns that touched the hearts of all attendees. After the church service, Pa Abiona was interred in a private cemetery, his final resting place signifying the end of an era.
The grand reception was held at the 10 Degrees Event Centre, Ikeja, attracting the crème de la crème of society. The hall was beautifully decorated by one of Nigeria’s top event planners at the moment, Teora Events. The event was truly grand as Shuga Band added a touch of glamour to the event, entertaining the guests until the early hours of the following day. As the day came to a close, Lagos resumed its lively rhythm, forever cherishing the memory of Pa Abiona in its heart.
