According to a news report from Daily Trust, Madam Florence Morenike Saraki, the mother of former Senate President Bukola Saraki, has passed away at the age of 88.

Reports indicate that the late octogenarian fell into a coma before being rushed to an undisclosed hospital in Lagos State due to an age-related ailment.

Several members of the Saraki family, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed the news to Daily Trust in Ilorin last night.

According to one of the sources, “The incident happened this evening when Mama went into a coma and was rushed to the hospital in Lagos state. She was later placed at an intensive care unit (ICU) before she died.

“Saraki was informed about it in Ilọrin and he left about two hours ago with his wife following the incident”, the source added.

The late Florence was the widow of Olusola Saraki, who was a Senator in the Second Nigerian Republic and political godfather in Kwara until his death in 2012.

Apart from Saraki, the late matriarch of the Saraki family who celebrated her 87th birthday in 2022, was survived by the former minister of state for transport, Gbemisola, Tope Saraki-Edu and Laolu.

Meanwhile, the People Democratic Party (PDP) in Ajikobi central were Saraki hails from, has mourned her passing.

In a statement by the chairman of the ward, Comrade Abubakar Yusuf Garba, the party said, “We share in the grief and sorrow that comes with the loss of a matriarch, a pillar of strength, and a guiding light. Chief (Mrs.) Florence Morenike Saraki was an exemplary woman, a devoted wife, and a dedicated mother who left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone she touched.

“Her unwavering support and dedication to her family, particularly her husband, the late Dr. Olusola Saraki, and her children, are a testament to her selflessness and devotion.”