Florence Morenike Saraki Biography
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Meet Chief Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki, wife to Olusola Saraki and mother of former senate president of Nigeria, Bukola Saraki, Senator Gbemisola Saraki, Mrs. Tope Edu, and Laolu Saraki. Today, we’ll have a glimpse into her biography, and explore her personal life, family, age, career, and death.
Without much further ado, let’s get started!
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Profile Summary
| Full Name | Florence Morenike Saraki (née Ibidapo) |
| Date of Birth | August 8, 1935 |
| Place of Birth | Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Occupation | Lawyer, Businesswoman |
| Ethnicity | African, Yoruba |
| Age | 88 years old (at the time of death) |
| Gender | Female |
| Husband | Olusola Saraki |
| Children | Bukola Saraki, Gbemisola Saraki, Mrs Tope Edu and Laolu Saraki |
| Parents | Madam Felicia Ojomo, Mr. Samuel Ibidapo Okunrinboye |
| Education | Balham & Tooting Bec College, Inns of Court, London |
| Best Known for | Legal expertise, business acumen, and community leadership |
| Date of Death/Cause | June 18, 2024 (natural causes) |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
Early Life and Educational Background
Chief Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki was born on August 8, 1935, in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. She was the cherished only child of Madam Felicia Ojomo, a member of the Ojomo royal household, and Mr. Samuel Ibidapo Okunrinboye. Her upbringing in a royal family set the stage for a life of distinction and service.
Florence pursued her education in the United Kingdom, where she attended Balham & Tooting Bec College in 1957 to study accountancy. She later earned a law degree and was called to the Inns of Court, London. Her hunger for knowledge was evident considering how she pursued academic excellence.
Career
After completing her education, Florence Morenike Saraki worked at Shell BP and then joined the United Africa Company (UAC). Her roles at UAC highlighted her versatility and business acumen. She worked under the leadership of Chief Ernest Shonekan, who later became the President of Nigeria.
Following her tenure at UAC, Mrs. Saraki transitioned to private practice, becoming a partner at Olagbegi, Aregbesola & Saraki Chambers. She also ventured into business, engaging in the trade of rice, tomato concentrates, sugar, and vegetable oil, and later took up farming in Kwara and Owo.
Personal Life
In 1961, while in the United Kingdom, Florence met a noble young medical student, Olusola Saraki. The couple married the same year and welcomed their first son, Bukola Saraki, in 1962. Upon returning to Nigeria, Florence initially lived with Dr. and Mrs. Otegbeye in Oke Arin, Lagos, while her husband prepared to join her
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Family
Florence Morenike Saraki was a devoted wife to Olusola Saraki, who later became the Senate Majority Leader and the Turakin and Waziri of Ilorin. Together, they raised children who would go on to achieve great things, including Bukola Saraki, who served as the Governor of Kwara State and Senate President of Nigeria.
Today, her legacy extends through her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who continue to carry forward the values and principles she instilled in them.
Death
On June 18, 2024, Chief Mrs. Florence Morenike Saraki peacefully passed away at the age of 88. Her son, Bukola Saraki, announced her passing with profound sadness and a sense of gratitude for her life. Her death marked the end of an era, but her legacy of kindness, leadership, and dedication to family and community lives on.
Mourning her passing, Segun Sowunmi, a former governorship aspirant of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ogun State, described her life as impactful and a source of gratitude to God. Florence Saraki was remembered for her impeccable fashion sense, culinary skills, and numerous contributions to society.
FAQs
1. When and where was Florence Morenike Saraki born?
Florence Morenike Saraki was born on August 8, 1935, in Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria.
2. What were her educational qualifications?
She studied accountancy at Balham & Tooting Bec College and later earned a law degree from the Inns of Court, London.
3. Who was her husband?
Her husband was Olusola Saraki, a distinguished Nigerian politician and medical doctor.
4. How many children did she have?
Florence Saraki had several children, including Bukola Saraki, former Governor of Kwara State and Senate President of Nigeria.
5. What were her career achievements?
She had a successful career in law, working with Shell BP, United Africa Company (UAC), and later in private practice. She was also an astute businesswoman involved in various ventures.
6. When did she pass away?
Florence Morenike Saraki passed away on June 18, 2024.
7. What is she best known for?
She is best known for her legal expertise, business acumen, community leadership, and being the mother of prominent Nigerian politician, Bukola Saraki (former Governor of Kwara State).
Wrap Up
Florence Morenike Saraki’s life was a testament to dedication, service, and the pursuit of excellence. Her contributions to her family, profession, and community will be remembered and appreciated by generations to come.
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