Dr Christopher Abebe, 99, father-in-law to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo, will be buried on May 18.

The father of late First Lady Stella Obasanjo died on March 22 following a brief illness.

His eldest son, Dr. John Abebe, who released the burial programme on Thursday in Benin said his father would be buried in Iruekpen, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo.

According to the arrangement, Christian wake would take place on May 17 and followed by interment on May 18 while thanks giving service would will hold on May 19.

Late Abebe was the Udionwere (community leader) of Iruekpen, home to former Gov. Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor of Edo.

Late Abebe was the first indigenous boss of UAC Nigeria.

President Muhammadu Buhari had described him as an “astute and dedicated community leader and business mogul.

The president in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, commiserated with the in-laws, friends, the organised private sector and the Iruekpen community.

“The President believes that as the Udionwere (community leader) of Iruekpen, the first indigenous Chairman and Managing Director of United Africa Company, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman Council of three Nigerian Universities (Benin, Nsukka and Calabar), Abebe was a shining light and worthy example of hard work.

He also described him as a positive influence and patriotism to his local community, the private sector and the nation.

“The President urges family members, business associates and the Catholic Church in Nigeria where he served committed as Papal Knight of St Gregory and Supreme Knight of St. Mulumba to honour Dr Abebe’s memory by upholding his lifelong dedication and passion to human development.

“The President prays that Almighty God will grant the soul of the departed eternal rest and comfort all who mourn him.”