Presidential spokesman, Dr. Reuben Abati, has lost his mother, Madam Maria Taiwo Abati. She died today, aged 81.

Abati, Special Adviser (Media & Publicity) to President Goodluck Jonathan of Nigeria, said in a statement just issued in the country’s capital, Abuja: “With a heavy heart and gratitude to God Almighty, the Abati family of Kemta-Okebode, Abeokuta announces the passing away of their mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Madam Maria Taiwo Abati who passed into glory today, aged 81.

“Mama Abati, a devout Christian, a very kind and loving person was born on 7th August 1931. She was born into the family of late Pa Samuel Jobo Arowotadina and Late Madam Elizabeth Efundunke Arowotadina of Ijemo, Abeokuta. She was a trader at Kuto Market for many years. She was popularly known and addressed as Mama Adunni or MamaSunday.”

Apart from Reuben, late Madam Abati is survived by children, grandchildren and great grandchildren, among them Mr. Robert Abati, a Geologist with Dangote Cement; Mr. Ralph Abati, a banker with Fidelity Bank Plc; and Mr. Lanre Abati, an Economist & Chartered Accountant. She is also survived by her twin sister, Madam Victoria Kehinde Olude.

“Funeral arrangements will be announced later,” Reuben said.

•Photo shows late Madam Abati.