Why I organised widows empowerment programme — Shina Peller

A former federal lawmaker and the Ayedero of Yorubaland, Hon Shina Peller, has said that his decision to hold a cash empowerment programme for about 200 widows in memory of the late Honourable Jacob Funmi Ogunsola (JFO) was informed by his desire to keep JFO’s legacy alive.

Peller explained that the programme was held not only as a tribute to JFO but also as a testament to the values he championed throughout his life, stressing that the heartfelt initiative marks two years since the passing of JFO.

In a statement posted on his social media platforms and made available to journalists, Peller stated that the programme encapsulates a commitment to continue the mission JFO devoted himself to, which is supporting those in need, particularly widows who often face financial hardships.

Peller explained that JFO was revered as a beacon of hope, providing consistent assistance and bringing smiles to the faces of many struggling families.

Until his untimely death, JFO organised an annual cash empowerment programme designed specifically to alleviate the burdens of widows in his community.

Witnessing the joy and gratitude from recipients during these distributions had a lasting impact on Hon. Peller, who participated in the last empowerment initiative alongside JFO.

Explaining the rationale behind his action, Peller said, “In the wake of JFO’s death, the collective grief was palpable. Among those who mourned, the widows felt a profound loss, believing their hopes for continued support vanished with him. This realisation motivated me to ensure that JFO’s mission would not fade away.”

Peller noted further that the venue for this year’s empowerment programme, First Baptist Church in Ago-Are, was chosen deliberately., adding that it served not only as a gathering place for the event but also as a space to pray for both JFO and his grieving family.

During the gathering, he made a solemn promise to uphold JFO’s empowering legacy, committing that such initiatives would persist annually, independent of any political office he may or may not hold in the future.

In his message, Peller reminded all that life’s true measure lies in everyone’s actions and intentions. He stressed that an individual’s contributions to society should echo the values of kindness and empathy, especially during challenging times.

His statement read in part: “Paying tribute to a true champion of the people. My friend is Late. Hon. Jacob Funmi Ogunmola (JFO) may be gone, but his impact lives on. I organized a special church service at First Baptist Church, Ago-Are, where he worshipped, to pray for his soul and the family he left behind.

“In the wake of JFO’s death, the collective grief was palpable. Among those who mourned, the widows felt a profound loss, believing their hopes for continued support vanished with him. This realization motivated me to ensure that JFO’s mission would not fade away.

“To that effect, I held a cash empowerment program for 200 widows across 4 LGAs in OkeOgun, Oyo State, a continuation of his remarkable work. I’m committed to sustaining this program annually in his honour. May we all be inspired to do good and remember the departed.”

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