Tejumade Alakija, the first female Head of Service in the old Oyo State and daughter of the late Ooni of Ife, Oba Adesoji Aderemi, is dead.Her death was confirmed by her younger brother, Mr Adelowo Aderemi yesterday during a news briefing in the city of Ibadan.As stated by Adelowo, his sister died to glory at UCH (University College Hospital) in Ibadan after a brief battle with an age related illness.Princess Alakija was born on May 17, 1925, in Ile-Ife, Osun state, into one of the most ancient and distinguished royal families in Nigeria.
Mrs. Alakija received her early education at Aiyetoro Primary and Central Schools, Ile-Ife, from 1933 — 1937; and also at Kudeti Girls' School, a private boarding primary school in Molete, Ibadan.Alakija obtained her B.A Honours (History) at Westfield College, University of London, England, between 1946 and 1950.She later proceeded to Oxford University, where she received a post – graduate Diploma in Education, 1950 – 1951. Mrs. Alakija was a member of the G.D.H. Cole Group — a body well reputed for its intellectual and international activities.She is survived by many children, grand children and great grand children.