Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has commiserated with the African Democratic Congress governorship candidate in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, over the death of his mother, Nkechi Rhodes-Vivour.

The governor’s condolence message was contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile.

Sanwo-Olu urged Rhodes-Vivour, his siblings and the entire family to accept the loss as the will of God, noting that death, though painful, is an inevitable part of life.

“On behalf of my family, the government and good people of Lagos State, I sympathise with Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, his siblings, and other family members on the demise of Mrs. Nkechi Stella Rhodes-Vivour,” the governor said.

The governor said the family should draw strength from the exemplary life lived by the deceased, describing her as a woman who would be remembered for her wisdom and contributions to those around her.

“The death of a loved one is painful, but we must take solace in God in a life well lived by the deceased. I know this is a painful loss to the Rhodes-Vivour family, as the late matriarch will be sorely missed for the elderly and wise counsel she was known for,” he added.

Sanwo-Olu further prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Mrs Rhodes-Vivour’s soul and asked God to comfort her family during the difficult period.

“May God grant her eternal rest and grant the family the fortitude to bear the loss,” the governor prayed.

PUNCH Online had reported that Rhodes-Vivour announced his mother’s death in a post on his X handle on Monday.

The ADC governorship candidate described the late Mrs Rhodes-Vivour as “a loving wife, devoted mother and grandmother” whose life was defined by love and selflessness.

The announcement, signed by his brother, Olawale Rhodes-Vivour, on behalf of the family, said funeral arrangements would be announced in due course.

In a memorial tribute accompanying the announcement, the family described the late matriarch as a woman whose kindness and unwavering love shaped the lives of those around her.

“She loved fiercely and gave endlessly. In her arms we found home; in her smile, we found peace. A wife who cherished, a mother who nurtured – her love was our shelter, and it remains, unshaken, in every heart she held.

“Though she is gone from our sight, she is never gone from our hearts,” the family said.