The Matriarch of the Awolowo family, Chief Hannah Idowu Dideolu (HID) Awolowo, is dead at the age of 99.

HID, as she was fondly called, died on Saturday at the family’s country home in Ikenne-Remo, Ogun.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the late Awolowo would have clocked 100 years-old on November 25.

She reportedly died shortly after a meeting on Saturday with her family members, who were said to be planning for her 100th birthday.

Her death occurred 28 years after the departure of her husband and late elder statesman, Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who died on May 9, 1987.

NAN reports that the late ‘Yeye Oodua’ died from complications associated with old age.

Meanwhile, one of the early callers to her residence on condolence visit was the Ogun State Deputy Governor, Mrs Yetunde Onanuga, who arrived at 5.55p.m.

In the deputy governor’s entourage were: former governor of the Ogun State, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, the Bishop of Remo Diocese Anglican‎ Communion, Rt. Rev. Olusina Fape and his wife, Toyin.

Others include Mr Taiwo Adeoluwa, the Secretary to the Ogun State Government.

Onanuga, in her condolence message, said “The state government and the people of Ogun commiserate with the entire‎ family on the passing of our matriarch.

“The news of her departure came to us as a shock, when we are preparing for her centenary birthday.

“Indeed, Ogun State has lost a mother, who has always been supportive of the Governor Ibikunle Amosun-led government.

“It is our prayer that her gentle soul rest in peace,” she said.

In his own message, Daniel said, “Mama’s death was not totally unexpected, but the reality is something that cannot be expected for the Yoruba nation, entire country and the entire world.

“It is indeed the end of an era. We take solace in the fact that Mama and the entire Awolowo clan have several children of which I remain proud to be one of them.

“We shall keep the banner flying. Adieu Mama!” (NAN)