Mrs Omotola Janet Adekuoroye, mother of Nigeria’s lone wrestler currently qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, Odunayo Adekuoroye has been laid to rest in Akure, Ondo state capital.
A statement released by Tony Nezianya, Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), noted that she was buried according to Christian burial rights.
Before her interment, a funeral service was held at the Prophetic Church of Nigeria, Mount Beulah Zone Church (PCN).
Mrs Adekuoroye, 71, died on October 17, 2023, and was buried on December 9, 2023.
There were testimonies to the humble nature of the deceased who had lived well in many cities in which the husband, Most Superintendent General Joshua Akinsanmi Adekuoroye, Minister in Charge, served in the Nigerian Police Force including, Ikot Ekpene, Akwa Ibom, Calabar, Cross River, Enugu, Enugu state, Oturkpo, Benue, Lagos, before returning to Akure, Ondo state.
She was a sportswoman during her lifetime, no wonder that one of her prominent daughters, Odunayo took after her in the field of wrestling sport and rose to fame as a seven-time medal winner in the Commonwealth Games, Gold medals in the African Games and the World Championships.
Among the prominent personalities at the interment was the likes President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Engr Habu Gumel, represented by NOC Spokesperson Tony Nezianya, and Daniel Igali, President of Nigeria Wrestling Federation represented by Mohammed H. Maigidansanma, Secretary-General of the Wrestling Federation.
Also in attendance were officials from the Ondo State Commission led by Otunba Dele Ologen, and the state Wrestling Association headed by their Chairman, Mr Stephen Ogundibie, as well as members of the Prophetic Church of Nigeria.
During the church service, eulogies were given in honour of Mrs Omotola Janet Adekuoroye, highlighting her dedication to her family, her role as a pillar of strength for her husband, and her support for her daughter’s wrestling career.
In his tribute, Engr Habu Gumel, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee, expressed his condolences to the Adekuoroye family and praised Mrs Adekuoroye’s contribution to Nigerian sports. He emphasized that her legacy would continue to inspire athletes in the country.
Igali also paid tribute to Mrs Adekuoroye and acknowledged her role in shaping her daughter’s successful wrestling career.
He assured the family of the Federation’s continued support for Odunayo Adekuoroye as she prepares for the Paris Olympic Games.
The interment of Mrs Adekuoroye was a solemn event, with prayers and hymns offered for the repose of her soul.
Family and well-wishers gathered at her graveside, paying their final respects and bidding farewell to a beloved mother, wife, and sports enthusiast.
The passing of Mrs Omotola Janet Adekuoroye is a great loss not only to her family but also to the Nigerian wrestling community. Her influence and support will always be remembered, and her memory will continue to inspire upcoming athletes in the country.
Late Mrs Adekuoroye is survived by her husband and five children – two men and three ladies including Wrestler Odunayo.
