President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva lamented, on Friday night (26), the death of Mother Carmen Oxaguian98 years old. She was an ialorixá from Terreiro de Gantois (Salvador-BA). In a letter of condolence, Lula stated that he and the first lady, Janja, were very saddened by the news. 
“Janja and I are deeply saddened by the departure of our dear Mother Carmen de Oxaguian, who led with great love, for more than 20 years, one of the most important Candomblé terreiros in Brazil, Ilé Ìyá Omi Àse Ìyamase, known in prose and verse as Terreiro do Gantois”, said the president.
Lula also highlighted that the religious leadership cultivated the ancestral tradition that Mãe Menininha and the other matriarchs transmitted to her in the form of a sacred commitment. In the note, the president pointed out that she kept alive the flame of African spirituality “which made a new home in Brazil and permeated the culture and hearts of Brazilians”.
“Cultivated love”
The Minister of Culture, Margareth Menezes, posted on her social networks to highlight the values of religious leadership.
“I had the privilege of knowing her as a spiritual authority, but also as a great woman of faith who cultivated love, acceptance and the strength of someone who leads by example,” added the minister.
The Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship released a note of condolence expressing solidarity with the Gantois community over the death of the ialorixá.
“His departure represents a great loss for the people of Santo, for Bahia and for the country. His life remains a legacy of wisdom, spiritual firmness and commitment to ancestry.”
Musician Gilberto Gil was one of the artists who expressed regret over the death of Mãe Menininha’s youngest daughter from Terreiro do Gantois
“He left today, leaving us greatly missed. Rest in peace! May Obatalá protect us”, wrote Gil.
Ancestry
Mãe Carmen was the religious name of retired accountant Carmen Oliveira da Silva. She led the Candomblé of Ilé Ìyá Omi Àṣẹ Ìyámase since 2002. She was born on December 29, 1926, at Casa do Candomblé, and was initiated at the age of seven.
Mother Carmen left two daughters, three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. The religious leader’s wake will continue until this Saturday (27), when she will be buried in Salvador.
