• Governor receives ex-gov’s body in Ondo
• CJ, Oke, others eulogise Akeredolu
As funeral activities for the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu kick-started in Ondo State, yesterday, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa declared today and tomorrow as public holidays in the state.
Aiyedatiwa, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, said that the public holidays were in honour of Akeredolu. According to the governor, the two work-free days will allow residents of the state to participate in the burial activities of the former governor.
The funeral rites for the former governor, which kicked off a few days ago in Ibadan, Oyo State, will witness the Ajabue traditional rite in his hometown of Owo, headquarters of Owo Local Council of the state.
Lying in state and commendation service was held, yesterday, at the Akure Township Stadium as well as evening of tributes at Saint Andrew Church, Owo.
Today, February 22, 2024 (public holiday), service of songs will be held at St Andrew Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, at 4:00 p.m., followed by a wake at Maranatha Villa, Owo, at 8:00 p.m.
There will also be a candlelight procession and world gyration by the Kegites Club at 8:00 p.m. till dawn. On Friday, February 23, 2024 (public holiday), Funeral Service will be held at St Andrew Church, Imola Street, Owo, at 10:00 a.m., while interment will follow immediately after the burial service at the burial site in Owo (strictly for immediate family). Reception follows immediately at Mydas Hotel and Resort, Ikare Road, Owo, by 1:00 p.m.
On Saturday, February 24, 2024, Akeredolu Memorial Friendly Football Match will hold at Akure Township Stadium, Akure, at 3:00 p.m. while on Sunday, February 25, 2024, a thanksgiving service will hold at St. Andrew Church, Imola Street, Owo, at 10:00 a.m.
Meanwhile, the remains of the late Akeredolu have arrived in Akure, Ondo State capital. Aiyedatiwa, who received the body of his late predecessor at the Governor’s Office in Alagbaka, Akure, on behalf of the people of Ondo State, said: “With a heavy heart, I extend a warm welcome to all gathered here for this solemn occasion, the lying in state of the late Akeredolu.”
“Today, we come together to honour and celebrate the well-lived life of Akeredolu, whose tireless dedication to the people of Ondo State resonates deeply within each of us.
“This session holds great significance as it marks the final place of work for our departed governor, where he served with unwavering passion, fairness, and equity, leaving behind a legacy that speaks volumes of his commitment to public service.”
Meanwhile, the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Olusegun Odusola, who spoke at a special court session held in honour of the late governor at the state high court in Akure, described the late Akeredolu as a courageous fighter that combated the security challenges in the state with his own approach.
Also, Olusola Oke, who represented the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria (BOSAN), described the late Akeredolu as a hero, saying that he will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
