Nigerian gospel music minister, Esther Igbekele, popularly known as the “Duchess of Gospel Music”, is set to bury her mother, Madam Mary Amope Igbekele, on October 2, in Ikorodu, Lagos.
Madam Igbekele, who died on August 14, at the age of 71 following a brief illness, will be laid to rest at her residence in Ikorodu, where the funeral rites will be held at CAC Faithful Foundation Assembly.
The burial announcement comes as the family prepares to honour the memory of their beloved matriarch, whose death has left a deep void in the lives of her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other loved ones.
Esther, who announced her mother’s passing on her social media page, expressed her grief in an emotional tribute that captured the depth of her loss.
Mourning the woman she described as a precious treasure in her life, the gospel artiste wrote: “And my mother died, death you took my gold away.”
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The emotional words reflected Esther’s profound attachment to her mother and the pain of losing someone who had been a major source of love, encouragement and spiritual support.
According to Esther, her late mother was a prayer warrior, a description that underscores the important role faith played in her life and family. Her devotion to prayer and commitment to her family reportedly made her a source of spiritual strength and inspiration to those around her.
The funeral programme will begin on Thursday, October 1, 2026, with a Wake Keep and Artists’ Night, bringing together family members, friends, church members, gospel musicians and other well-wishers to celebrate the life and legacy of the deceased.
The Artists’ Night is expected to provide an opportunity for gospel music colleagues and friends of Esther to rally around her and the Igbekele family through music, prayers and tributes while honouring the memory of Madam Mary Amope Igbekele.
The following day, Friday, October 2, will be the main burial ceremony at CAC Faithful Foundation Assembly, Ikorodu, where relatives, church leaders, colleagues and sympathisers are expected to gather to bid her a final farewell.
Madam Igbekele’s life spanned several generations. She was survived by her family in the cherished roles of sister, wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, leaving behind a family legacy that extends across generations.
For Esther, the loss is particularly personal, coming from the departure of a mother whose presence and prayers had remained an important part of her journey in gospel music and ministry.
While mourning her passing, the family is expected to use the funeral ceremonies to celebrate her life, faith, values and the memories she created with those who knew and loved her.
As the date draws near, members of the gospel music community and Esther’s admirers are expected to join the Igbekele family in paying their final respects to Madam Mary Amope Igbekele, whose life was remembered for her devotion to God, love for her family and commitment to prayer.
