Erelu Anthonia Abiodun Ayeni, wife of Dr. Akintunde Ayeni, founder and CEO of Yem-Kem International, passed away on Monday, January 6, 2025. Her death came just three days after celebrating her 55th birthday, in a somber development that has shaken the Lagos business community.
The loss has particularly touched the Ayeni family, coming only five months after the joyous wedding of their son Christopher to Adeola Boye, which was celebrated in a grand ceremony at Hyde Park, Lagos.
While details surrounding her passing have not been made public, the news has prompted an outpouring of condolences from prominent Nigerians. On Wednesday, January 8, Ekiti State Governor Abiodun Oyebanji paid a personal condolence visit to the Ayeni family residence in Lagos to commiserate with the bereaved Yem-Kem chief executive.
8th Day Fidau Prayer Held at Gowon Estate
Today, as part of Islamic burial rites, the 8th-day Fidau prayer was held for the repose of Erelu Abiodun Ayeni’s soul at Gowon Estate on the outskirts of Lagos. The solemn ceremony saw the attendance of notable personalities, including the Chairman of Lamex Holdings and the Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of AKNN, Ayo Sogbuyi.
Throughout her life, the late Erelu Abiodun was widely recognized as a remarkable woman whose warmth and kindness touched many lives. Her contributions to both family and society have left an indelible mark that will remembered by all who knew her.

Ayo Sogbuyi is a seasoned journalist with over 30 years of experience, he is a passionate advocate for press freedom and ethical reporting. Throughout his career, he has covered significant global events and championed the role of journalism in holding power to account.