In a poignant moment that transcends the usual cut and thrust of political discourse, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has extended a hand of solemn solidarity and deep sympathy to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, following the passing of his beloved mother, Mrs. Lydia Yilwatda. The matriarch, whose life was a tapestry of strength, love, and unwavering dedication, departed at the age of 83 within the walls of the Jos University Teaching Hospital, leaving behind a void that resonates far beyond her immediate family.
Governor Abiodun’s condolence message, rich with the warmth of shared humanity, painted a vivid portrait of a woman whose existence was a masterclass in quiet influence and profound impact. He eulogized Mrs. Yilwatda not merely as a biological parent but as a foundational pillar whose nurturing spirit and boundless compassion sculpted the character and destiny of those around her, most notably her son, who now steers the ship of Nigeria’s ruling party.
The governor’s words carefully wove a narrative that connected the dots between a mother’s teachings in the home and a leader’s conduct on the national stage, highlighting the core principles of integrity, diligence, and selfless service she instilled—values that now manifest in Prof. Yilwatda’s public service.
This gesture, while personal, underscores the often-unseen threads of family and legacy that underpin the nation’s political landscape. It is a reminder that behind every public figure stands a private history, often shaped by the love and sacrifice of a parent.
Governor Abiodun’s tribute, therefore, serves a dual purpose: it offers comfort to a grieving colleague while also inviting the public to celebrate the quiet, powerful life of a woman whose legacy is eternally engraved in the principled leadership of her son and the countless lives she touched within her community.
In honoring Lydia Yilwatda, the governor reminds us that the most enduring politics are those rooted in the timeless virtues of home and heart.