Tinubu, governors, others pay tributes as Akeredolu is buried in Owo

President Bola Tinubu joined Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, other state governors, former governors, and prominent Nigerians at the funeral ceremony of the late Oluwarotimi Akeredolu in Owo on Friday.

A statement by Aiyedatiwa’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, mentioned that Tinubu was represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima. Shettima emphasized that Nigeria has lost a man whose legacy will endure. He stressed that instead of mourning, it’s a day to celebrate Akeredolu’s life and his contributions to humanity.

President Tinubu highlighted Akeredolu’s lasting impact on history and expressed that he will always be revered. He described the former governor as a highly intelligent individual and a dogged fighter.

ALSO READ: Akeredolu served state, country with bravery, doggedness, says Gov Aiyedatiwa

Speaking at the service held at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola, Owo, Governor Aiyedatiwa eulogized his former principal and hailed his unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law, which earned him respect and solidarity from his fellow governors.

Accompanied by his deputy, Chief Olayide Adelami, and other top government functionaries, Governor Aiyedatiwa stressed Akeredolu’s multifaceted impact on society, reflecting on the accolades and tributes bestowed upon him from various quarters.

The governor described the late former governor as a warrior of integrity whose legacy lives on in the hearts of all who knew him, extending beyond his immediate family to touch the lives of countless others.

ALSO READ: Akeredolu Burial: Ondo Govt declares Thursday, Friday work-free days 

Other governors at the event included Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti, Goodwin Obaseki of Edo, Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Abdulrahman Abdulrasaq of Kwara, Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, Douye Diri of Bayelsa, and Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta.

Also in attendance were Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, former governors Olusẹgun Mimiko, Kayode Fayemi, and Gbenga Daniel, as well as APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and the wife of the late prophet T.B Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, members of the National and State Assemblies, among other political office holders and members of the body of benchers.

In his sermon titled: “The Brevity of Life,” the Anglican Bishop of Ikwerre and Archbishop of the Niger Delta Province, Rev. Blessing Enyindah, emphasized the transient nature of life and the importance of making a meaningful impact while on earth.

ALSO READ: UPDATED: Governor Akeredolu is dead 

Enyindah urged attendees to reflect on their legacy and the significance of their actions. He also urged political leaders to uphold their electoral pledges, striving to enhance the quality of life for the populace and fulfill their duty to serve with integrity and compassion.

Bishop Stephen Fagbemi, the Bishop of Owo diocese, in his remarks, revealed plans to immortalize the late governor, who served as Chancellor of the Anglican Communion in Owo, through the Anglican Medical and Diagnostic Center, which will be dedicated in his honor.

The remains of the former governor were later interred at a private cemetery at the Chapel of Epiphany before a reception ceremony was held for guests at Mydas Hotel and Resort, Owo.