The lively town of Ijebu-Ode was brought to a standstill last week when London returnee and Chief Executive Officer of IBIS hotel, Otunba Femi Okenla, staged the final burial ceremony of his late mother, Chief Mrs Florence Morenikeji Okenla.
The event started with a Christian wake and lying-in-state, after which a procession followed the corpse of the late chief around her neighbourhood. Pallbearers danced excitedly as they celebrated the deceased for a life well spent. It was followed by a church service and interment.
The reception took place after the internment. It turned out to be a mini carnival as socialites, politicians and business moguls gathered to celebrate with the real estate businessman. Tungba exponent, Yinka Ayefele kept many guests dancing for a while as he thrilled them to melodious songs.
Those in attendance had more than enough to eat as the billionaire businessman spared no cost to entertaining his numerous guests. The hospitality mogul, who owns HDV Group which comprises Home Deals Ventures Nigeria Limited and Hotel Development Ventures returned, to Nigeria after spending about 25 years practicing criminal, asylum and litigation law in the United Kingdom. He ventured into the real estate business while still working as a lawyer.
He later established one of the biggest hospitality houses in Ikeja, IBIS hotel. He also made his debut as a writer in 2015 at the launch of his first book, The Power of Thoughts during his 50th birthday celebration.
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