Diaspora leaders honour late Alhaji Safiriyu Ola Aremu, offer prayers and solidarity
A delegation of the Iwoland Descendants Association, Inc. on Saturday, January 24, 2026, paid a condolence visit to the Aremu family in Staten Island, New York, following the passing of their patriarch, Alhaji Safiriyu Ola Aremu.
The visit was organised to commiserate with Mr. Olusola Aremu and members of his family, and to honour the memory of a man widely described as a respected elder and community figure whose life was defined by integrity, devotion to family, and service to humanity.
High-powered delegation led by IDA president
The delegation was led by Chief Sarafadeen Babalola, President of the Iwoland Descendants Association (USA/Canada) and Agbaakin of Oluponna Land. He was accompanied by several prominent members of the association, including Prince Wasiu Abiodun Katayeyanjue, Chairman of the IDA Board of Trustees; Alhaji Ishiak Akanji, Chairman of Olorunlogbon Oil and Gas and Legal Adviser to the association; Comrade Dotun Akinpelu; Dr. Bamdele Agada; Alhaji Ismail Adeniyi Rufai (RAI), and other notable members of the Iwoland diaspora community.
Their presence underscored the importance the association places on collective responsibility and support for its members, especially in moments of loss.
Tributes to a life of honour and service
Speaking on behalf of the association, Chief Babalola conveyed the heartfelt condolences of the entire Iwoland Descendants Association to the bereaved family. He described the late Alhaji Safiriyu Ola Aremu as an elder whose life left enduring lessons in uprightness, humility, and commitment to family values.
He noted that while death is an unavoidable reality, the legacy of good character and positive influence left behind by the deceased would continue to stand as a testament to his life.
“Though we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well lived. His good name and impact will not be forgotten,” he said.
Words of comfort and prayers
Prince Wasiu Abiodun Katayeyanjue and Comrade Dotun Akinpelu also addressed the family, urging them to draw strength from the fulfilled and honourable life lived by the departed patriarch. They encouraged the family to take solace in the unity and support of the Iwoland community, both at home and in the diaspora.
Special prayers were offered by Alhaji Ishiak Akanji, who prayed for the peaceful repose of the soul of Alhaji Safiriyu Ola Aremu and asked Almighty Allah to grant the family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Family expresses gratitude
In his response, Mr. Olusola Aremu expressed deep appreciation to the leadership and members of the Iwoland Descendants Association (USA/Canada) for their visit, prayers, and show of solidarity.
He described the gesture as deeply comforting and a source of strength for the family during a difficult period, noting that such support reflects the enduring bond among sons and daughters of Iwoland across the world.
Unity beyond borders
The condolence visit concluded with prayers and a reaffirmation of the association’s continued support for the Aremu family. The gathering highlighted the strong spirit of unity, brotherhood, and shared heritage that continues to bind members of the Iwoland community in the diaspora, even far from home.
