Kabba/Bunu Chairman Hon. Zaccheus Dare Michael, Hon. Femi Omoga, and Dr. Olubiyo Femi Lead Tributes at the Burial of Late Mrs. Abike Janet Makanjuola (Nee Enimola), Widely Known as “Oyato Food”
By: Fanodun Akintoye Sunday
Kabba/bunu local government
In a moving display of unity, respect, and community spirit, the burial ceremony of Late Mrs. Abike Janet Makanjuola (née Enimola), popularly known as “Oyato Food,” drew a host of dignitaries, political figures, and respected community leaders from across the Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area and beyond. The event, held in her hometown, served as a testament to the profound impact she had on countless lives through her generosity, enterprise, and unwavering motherly role in the community.
Leading the delegation of high-ranking officials was the Executive Chairman of Kabba/Bunu Local Government, Hon. Zaccheus Dare Michael, who praised the late matriarch as “a symbol of resilience, industriousness, and unity who devoted her life to the service of her people.” He emphasized the importance of her contributions not only to local commerce but also to community development and intergenerational mentorship.
Also in attendance was Hon. Femi Omoga, a respected political leader and advocate for grassroots development. He described Mrs. Makanjuola as “a mother to all, whose culinary brand’ Oyato Food’ did not only nourish bodies but also built bridges of love, tolerance, and support across community lines.”
Adding further weight to the event was the presence of Dr. Olubiyo Femi, a legendary figure and statesman known for his advocacy and contributions to socio-political development in the region. In his tribute, Dr. Olubiyo stated, “Mama Oyato’s life reminds us that true leadership begins in the home and flourishes through service. Her legacy lives on in the unity we see here today.”
Other prominent figures, traditional rulers, business owners, and community leaders were also present to honor the late Mrs. Makanjuola, who was widely revered not only as an entrepreneur but as a compassionate and unifying figure. Her home and business were open to many, and she is remembered for her consistent commitment to uplifting others, especially women and youths.
The gathering of such esteemed individuals at her final rites serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring values of community cohesion, respect for legacy, and the collective responsibility of leadership. The ceremony was more than a funeral—it was a celebration of a life well lived, and a call for continued unity and service among Kabba/Bunu’s political and social leaders.
In an age where public trust in leadership is often tested, events like this reinforce the critical role that empathy, humility, and service play in shaping effective and impactful governance. As the community bids farewell to one of its finest, it also recommits to preserving the values she stood for.