President Mohammadu Buhari has commiserated with Lagos-based pastor and founder of Trinity House, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo over the death of his wife.

Ibidun Ighodalo

His wife, Ibidunni who was an ex beauty queen and a popular Lagos businesswoman and event planner died in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, in the early hours of Sunday.

Her husband, Ituah, who officiated at a funeral on Sunday, hinted his listeners on the death.

“A lot of you know that I really shouldn’t be here. But that is how life is. Around 2’oclock this morning, I received a call that shattered my life, but life must go on,” he said.

A statement by the couple’s families confirmed the sad news.

“The Ighodalo and Olaleye Ajayi families are deeply saddened to announce the sudden loss of our beloved wife and daughter, Mrs Ibidunni Ituah-Ighodalo, who passed away in the early hours of today (Sunday).

“As you will understand, this is a difficult time for our families and we will appreciate some privacy during this time,” the statement said.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, the President said Pastor Ighodalo “faithfully prays for the country and the government.”

“Please accept my condolences. May God give you the fortitude to bear the loss, and strengthen you at this trying time,” Buhari added.

Also, Edo State Governor, Gowin Obaseki, and his wife, Betsy, in a statement said, “Ibidunni was one of the finest among us; she was full of life and gave herself to causes that edified life and living.”

A former presidential candidate and publisher, Dele Momodu, described her as a workaholic.

“Now I know it is not how long you live that matters but how impactful. Good night, Aburo mi atata,” he added.

A former education minister, Oby Ezekwesili, said the news was heartbreaking and prayed that God would comfort her family.

Also, Nollywood actress, Funke Akindele, said she was a good friend.

“You helped position the Jenifa brand, you taught me how to be classy and decent. You and @bonixdrinks were always there for me. Ha! Why? We can’t question you, oh lord!!! Rest in Peace, my beautiful Sister. May God comfort uncle’s heart,” she wrote.

Ibidunni got married to Pastor Ituah on February 16, 2007. The deceased founded a non-profit organisation, Ibidunni Ighodalo Foundation, through which she provided grants for couples who needed fertility treatments, including IVF.

She is survived by her husband and two children.