By Adelanke Akinmoladun
The documentary of Mrs. Abike Victoria Dairo, wife of the late farmer and cocoa merchant, and daughter of the late Oshinle Alfred Adesioye of Idanre, captures the remarkable journey of a woman whose life is defined by love, care, and family legacy.
Though uncertain of her exact age, Mama Abike noted she was well over 20 years old when she gave birth to her first son, Mr. Ifedayo Dairo. This places her around 90 years of age. She fondly recalled some members of her late husband’s family, and narrated her early life, explaining that she had no formal education or skill acquisition but was raised by her maternal aunt, who cared for her and even bought her wedding clothes.
She described marriage and motherhood as her greatest blessings, affirming that it was God who gave her children: Mr. Ifedayo Dairo, Mrs. Ronke Akinlose, Mrs. Roseline Akinnaso, Mrs. Foluke Fatokimi, Dr. Dokun Dairo, Mr. Akinyelure Dairo, and Mrs. Bosede Akindugbagbe.
Mama Abike proudly testified that she faced no challenges in her matrimony, as her husband showered her with love and care.
Although she noted that initially had someone else in mind before marriage, her late father insisted she marry from Irowo quarters, specifically her late husband, Mr. Francis Dairo. Yielding to her father’s advice, she confessed she never regretted the decision.
Her heart of care extended beyond her biological children. She recalled how she raised Mr. Babatunde Akingbondere, her father’s relative, playing a great role in his education and treating him like her own child. Similarly, she raised her niece, Mrs. Iyabo Ayodele, from the age of two, providing for her until she was married.
Mama Abike expressed gratitude to her late husband for being a supportive partner and for ensuring their children had a good life. Today, two of her children reside abroad while the others live successfully in Nigeria. She also acknowledged her late co-wife, Mrs. Eunice Dairo, and appreciated the unity that binds all their children together.
With a heart of thanksgiving, Mama Abike singled out her daughter, Mrs. Foluke Fatokimi, for her consistent care and support, while blessing all her children and in-laws with prayers of love and continuity.
Mrs. Foluke Fatokimi described her as a loving and caring mother who supported her business journey before marriage.
In the same vein, Mama’s other children: Mr. Ifedayo Dairo; Mrs. Ronke Akinlose; Mrs. Roseline Akinnaso; Dr. Dokun Dairo; Mr. Akinyelure Dairo, and Mrs. Bosede Akindugbagbe as well as her grandson, Mr. Jones Fatokimi have the following to say about their mother.
Mr. Babatunde Akingbondere recalled how Mama and her husband treated him as their own, making sure he got education and nurturing him through life.
Similarly, Mrs. Iyabo Ayodele affirmed Mama’s selflessness, saying she never differentiated between her children and others.
Mr. Dantis Akingboye, a neighbor, testified to Mama’s kindness, recalling her generosity and love for children in the neighborhood.
Omolola Akinbo Reporting for Platinum TV
