Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president caused a stir yesterday, November 18, when he donated the sum of N10 million in cash at the book launch of the late matriarch of Awolowo family, Chief Hannnah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo.
Atiku, who was the chief presenter at the biography launch, entitled: “In the Radiance of the Sage: The Life and Times of HID Awolowo,” ordered that the money be brought from his car and handed over to the representative of the family, Vanguard reports.
Atiku at the book launch of the late matriarch of Awolowo family, Chief Hannnah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo
The launch of the biography of HID written by Prof. Wale Adebanwi held at the country home of the Awolowos in Ikenne, Ogun State.
According to Atiku, the late matriarch of Awolowo family was the best first lady Nigeria never had, adding that late Chief Obafemi Awolowo owed his successes in life largely to her.
Other prominent Nigerians at the launch included: former governor of Abia State, Chief Orji Uzor Kalu, who was represented by managing director of New Telegraph Newspapers, Mrs. Funke Egbemode, former speaker of the House of Representatives, Dimeji Bankole and Juju music maestro, Commander Ebenezer Obey- Fabiyi.
Others in attendance were; Hon. Ladi Adebutu, Senator Anthony Adefuye, Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Prince Ademola Adeniji-Adele, amongst others.
They all donated various sums of money to support the book.
HID Awolowo died at the age of 99 on Saturday, September 19, as preparations for her centenary birthday were in top gear.
Her remains arrived Ogun state on Monday and was received by Governor Ibikunle Amosun at the interchange area. She was paid glowing tributes by the Ogun state executive council.
She was buried on Wednesday, November 25, the date she would have clocked 100 years.