The story of family, love, motherhood and the enduring bond between two prominent Nigerian personalities.
When Chief (Mrs.) Iyalode Alaba Oluwaseun Lawson passed away on October 28, 2023, aged 72, Nigeria lost one of its most influential businesswomen and community leaders.
Her remarkable contributions to commerce, education, philanthropy and the development of Egbaland earned her a distinguished place in Nigerian history.
However, beyond her public achievements was a personal story that linked her life to another celebrated Nigerian personality, Evangelist (Prof.) Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi, the legendary juju musician whose music has entertained generations.
At the centre of this connection is Oreoluwa Obey-Fabiyi, the son of two accomplished individuals whose legacies extend across different fields of Nigerian society.
Born in the United Kingdom on May 14, 1984, Oreoluwa Obey-Fabiyi is described as the last child of the late Alaba Lawson and the sixth son and seventh child of Ebenezer Obey.
His background brought him into a family associated with business leadership, cultural influence and musical excellence. Yet, rather than pursue a career in entertainment like his famous father, Oreoluwa chose a professional path of his own.
He studied at Igbinedion University, Okada, in Edo State, and became a civil engineer. He is also associated with Nigeria’s maritime sector and the Nigerian Shippers’ Council.
He is happily married to Titilayo Damilola Siyanbola in Lagos in May 2015, and they have a son.
His life illustrates how children from prominent families can establish their own identities while remaining connected to the achievements and values of their parents.
Among the most touching aspects of Oreoluwa’s story was his close relationship with his mother.
Their affection was so evident that he was fondly described in Yoruba as “Oreoluwa ọkọ ìyá rẹ” an affectionate expression suggesting a son who occupied an exceptionally special place in his mother’s life.
That closeness became particularly meaningful during Alaba Lawson’s final days.
According to Oreoluwa’s account, his mother summoned him and his elder brother, Akinola Lawson, to the hospital while she was ill. In a moment that revealed her determination and attention to detail, she reportedly began documenting her own funeral arrangements, specifying how she wanted her final journey to be conducted.
Although the experience was emotionally difficult for her son, he found the courage to participate in the conversation.
He recalled that she wanted a simple burial. After their discussion, she smiled, and the family took a photograph together. She also placed her hand on his head and prayed for him.
It was a deeply personal moment: a mother preparing for her final journey while offering her son a blessing he would carry long after her departure.
Following his mother’s death, Oreoluwa expressed gratitude for the privilege of being raised by two distinguished personalities.
He acknowledged both Ebenezer Obey and the late Alaba Lawson with appreciation, describing the love and support he had received from them as a blessing.
His words reflected an understanding that family relationships can be complex, yet the love between parents and children can remain a source of strength and gratitude.
He also publicly appreciated his father for standing by him and the family during their period of mourning, praying that God would continue to protect and preserve him.
The statement offered a glimpse into the family relationship behind the public identities of a celebrated musician and an accomplished businesswoman.
Iyalode Alaba Lawson’s passing also affected Ebenezer Obey, who publicly described her death as a tremendous loss to the family, Egbaland, Ogun State and Nigeria.
He disclosed that he had visited her during her illness and prayed with her. According to his account, she had expressed hope that she would recover, making her eventual death particularly painful.
Nevertheless, he found comfort in the knowledge that she had lived a fulfilled and impactful life.
His involvement in her funeral arrangements further demonstrated the continuing connection between the families. Ebenezer Obey served as chairman of the central planning committee for her funeral, working with members of her family, including her sons, to honour her memory.
This shared responsibility highlighted a moment when family, respect and remembrance took precedence over the private circumstances of the past.
Beyond his parents’ fame and accomplishments, Oreoluwa’s story also carries a message about the values passed from one generation to another.
In reflecting on his mother’s influence, he highlighted compassion, caring for others, trust in Jehovah and the importance of standing firm when one knows one is right.
These principles offer another perspective on Alaba Lawson’s legacy not simply as a woman who achieved success in business and public life, but as a mother whose lessons continued through her children.
Her influence extended beyond boardrooms, educational institutions and community leadership into the lives of those closest to her.
Similarly, Ebenezer Obey’s enduring contribution to Nigerian music represents a different but equally significant dimension of cultural heritage.
Through Oreoluwa, these two family histories intersect: one associated with enterprise and public service, the other with music and cultural expression.
The story of Alaba Lawson, Ebenezer Obey and their son reminds us that public figures have personal lives that cannot always be understood through their professional achievements alone.
Behind the titles, accolades and public recognition are relationships, sacrifices, moments of joy and experiences of grief that make their stories deeply human.
Alaba Lawson will be remembered for her contributions to Egbaland and Nigeria. Ebenezer Obey remains a celebrated figure in the country’s musical history. Oreoluwa Obey-Fabiyi represents the family connection between these two remarkable lives.
Ultimately, this is more than a story about the son of two prominent personalities. It is a reflection on motherhood, fatherhood, family bonds and the legacies that continue through future generations.
As we remember Iyalode Alaba Oluwaseun Lawson, we are reminded that a person’s legacy is measured not only by what they achieve in public, but also by the values, love and memories they leave behind.
As we remember Iyalode Alaba Oluwaseun Lawson, we must also ask ourselves:
📍What legacy are we preparing to leave behind when our time on earth is over?
📍What will we be remembered for and whose lives will we have touched?
Courtesy: Voice of Oke-Ona Egba
…Promoting Culture and Heritage.
