What began as an emotional farewell for Nollywood actress Mercy Aigbe’s late mother, Abisola Grace Owodunni, soon evolved into one of the most talked-about social events of the weekend. While the ceremonies were deeply rooted in grief and tradition, the burial unexpectedly transformed into a vibrant display of fashion, celebrity presence and high-visibility branding, a mix that quickly ignited conversations across social media.
In the days leading to the burial, Mercy Aigbe shared several heartfelt tributes, including clips from the Service of Songs where she was seen overwhelmed with emotion as she accompanied her mother’s casket into the venue. The public sympathised with her grief, and messages of support trailed the video. But by the time the final burial rites were observed, the atmosphere had shifted. The memorial gathering had taken on an energy more commonly seen at high-profile celebrations than somber farewells.
The aso-ebi alone became a highlight. Mercy’s wardrobe choices, from richly embroidered lace to elaborate gele ensembles, gained as much attention as the ceremony itself. Industry colleagues and friends arrived in coordinated colours, each outfit seemingly curated for visibility, resulting in a cascade of glamorous images that quickly dominated online timelines. The funeral became a stage for style statements, with guests sharing their looks as though attending a major gala.
The spotlight intensified even further when souvenirs were introduced. Among the most talked-about items were branded bags of rice distributed by actress Iyabo Ojo. The packaging, which featured imagery associated with her own family’s recent celebrations, blended condolence with branding in a way that many viewers interpreted as a PR moment. While some praised the gesture as generous, others questioned the growing trend of using funerals as platforms for personal or promotional imprinting.
The buzz surrounding the souvenirs highlighted a larger conversation about the evolving nature of Nigerian celebrity events, where the line between social obligation, public image and cultural tradition is increasingly fluid. Mercy Aigbe’s mother’s burial became a case study in how mourning, pop culture and visibility can intersect in unexpected ways.
Despite the swirl of fashion and fanfare, Mercy expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support. She noted that the presence of her friends, family and industry colleagues brought her strength during a difficult period. Yet the public takeaway, the glitz, the elegance, the souvenirs reinforced how even solemn occasions can take on lives of their own in the era of social media and celebrity culture.
