Abeokuta shuts down as dignitaries gather for wedding of Yemi Kolapo’s daughter

Obasanjo, Emir Sanusi, Top Generals, Politicians, Media Icons, Nollywood Stars Grace Grand Celebration

The ancient city of Abeokuta stood still on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as a constellation of Nigeria’s most influential figures converged for the Nikkah (wedding) of Faizah Omoteniola Kolapo, daughter of Dr. Yemi Kolapo, Publisher of The Point Newspaper and Iya Sunnah of Egbaland, and AbdulHakeem Jimoh, son of retired military officer, Brig. Gen. Olanrewaju Jimoh.

A celebration of love and legacy

 

The beautifully adorned marquee of the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library served as the venue for the grand affair. The event attracted guests from across the country and beyond, paying tribute to the philanthropic legacies of both families, according to a report by Freedomonline.

Dr. Kolapo, who is also President of the Media Transformation and Empowerment Foundation and Ameerah General of Ogun State, received high praise for her impact in media and religious spheres.

The groom’s father, Brig. Gen. Jimoh (rtd), was equally celebrated for his years of service and contributions to the society.

Sanusi, Obasanjo, Amosun lead distinguished guests

Among the most prominent guests was His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano and ex-Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Despite last-minute travel changes due to the burial of the Emir of Zuru, Sanusi ensured his presence, describing it as a personal duty to honour Dr. Kolapo.

Other notable figures in attendance are:

• Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and his wife, Chief (Mrs) Bola Obasanjo
• Senator Ibikunle Amosun, former Governor of Ogun State
• Aremo Olusegun Osoba, veteran journalist and former Ogun State Governor
• Oba (Prof.) Saka Matemilola, the Olowu of Owu Kingdom
• Ambassador Sarafa Isola, former Nigerian High Commissioner to the UK
• Capt. Raji Rasheed (rtd), former Military Administrator of Sokoto State and Baba Adinni of Egbaland
• Otunba Oyewole Fasawe, businessman and political associate of Obasanjo

Governors, senators and political stalwarts present

Kogi State Governor Alhaji Usman Ododo, who lost his father just two days prior, was represented by the state’s Commissioner for Finance, Asiwaju Asiru Idris, alongside a team of special advisers.

Other political dignitaries included:

• Senator Shuaib Salisu (Ogun Central)
• Senator Lekan Mustapha, Aare Musulumi of Ogun State
• Senator Adesoji Akanbi, Okanlomo of Ibadaland
• Hon. Ladi Adebutu, PDP chieftain
• Hon. Segun Showunmi, Convener of The Alternative
• Alhaja Salmot Badru, former Ogun Deputy Governor
• Rt. Hon. Suraj Adekunbi, two-term Speaker, Ogun Assembly
• Prof. Anthony Kila, Pro-Chancellor, Michael & Cecilia Ibru University
• Chief Ralphs Nwosu, Founding Chairman, African Democratic Congress

Strong media presence

The Nigerian media industry showed up in full force. Attendees included:

• Mr. Ademola Osinubi and Mr. Joseph Adeyeye, former and current MDs of Punch Newspapers
• Mr. Gbemiga Ogunleye, ex-Provost, NIJ
• Chief Raheem Adedoyin, Secretary-General, International Press Institute
• Mrs. Funke Egbemode, ex-Osun Information Commissioner and past NGE President
• Mr. Mustapha Isah, former NGE President
• Mr. Femi Adesina, ex-presidential spokesman
• Dr. Reuben Abati, media personality and former presidential aide
• Mr. Tunde Rahman, SSA on Media to President Tinubu
• Mr. Eze Anaba, current NGE President
• Chief Chris Isiguzo, NUJ leader
• Dr. Kabir Garba, NGE Vice President
• Dr. Lasisi Olagunju, Saturday Tribune Editor

Corporate communications heads from top banks and firms also attended, including:

• Nasir Ramon (UBA)
• Kunle Aderinokun (Access Bank)
• Tajudeen Ahmed (BUA Industries)

Clerics and Islamic scholars deliver powerful messages

The spiritual aspect of the Nikkah was led by top Islamic scholars, including:

• Sheikh Saadallah Bamgbola, Chief Imam of Egbaland
• Sheikh AbdulQuadr Junaid, Chief Imam of Remoland

Prof. Kamaldeen Balogun, Chief Imam of Gbagura and wedding lecturer

• Sheikh Sulaimon Farouk Onikijipa, Grand Mufti of Ilorin
• Sheikh Sulaiman AbdulAzeez, Imam Gambary of Ilorin

Prof. Balogun emphasized loyalty, patience, and mutual support in his sermon. The Emir of Kano also offered heartfelt advice: “In everything you do in marriage, ask yourself — is this something you would do to someone you truly love?”

Military brass and public service titans in attendance

Serving and retired top brass of the military added weight to the guest list. These included:

• Maj. Gen. RO Yusuff (rtd)
• Maj. Gen. JB Olawumi (rtd)
• Maj. Gen. Oyefesobi (rtd)
• Maj. Gen. Ajetunmobi, Maj. Gen. Ogunlade, AVM Demola Durotoye (rtd)
• Maj. Gen. Faruk Mijinyawa, GOC 81 Division Lagos
• Rear Admirals Imam and Olanrewaju
• Brig. Gen. GU Nwamba, Commander, 35 Arty Brigade, Alamala
• Maj. Gen. BO Sawyerr, among others

Star Power: Nollywood graces the occasion

The wedding also sparkled with the presence of Nollywood royalty:

• Chief Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello)
• Fathia Balogun, Bimbo Akintola, Toyin Abraham and husband
• Fausat Balogun (Madam Saje)
• Doyin Kukoyi, media influencer Queen Zara Onyinye, and others

Emotional moments and speeches

The groom’s father, Brig. Gen. Jimoh (rtd), expressed deep gratitude to God and to all guests.

Dr. Yemi Kolapo said with pride: “I feel super proud that I raised a lovely daughter. My message to them is to live in peace, shut out intruders, love each other, and grow together.”

Senator Amosun described the union as “blissful” and prayed for future generations to celebrate similarly joyous occasions.

Reception Chairman, Amb. Sarafa Tunji Ishola, delivered a thought-provoking speech, likening marriage to a journey from “the ocean of fantasy to the ocean of reality.” He stressed mutual respect, responsibility, and non-violence in marital life.

A musical finish by K1 De Ultimate

The reception climaxed with a thrilling performance by Fuji legend Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate), who kept the crowd entertained with his evergreen hits.

The wedding of Faizah and AbdulHakeem was more than a ceremony—it was a convergence of tradition, prominence, and goodwill, reflecting the strong reputations of both families. Abeokuta may not witness such a high-powered gathering again soon, but the memories of August 23, 2025, will live on.