The family of the former governor of Ondo, Mr Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), on Monday revealed that the the late governor would be buried on February 23 in Owo Local Government Area of the state.
Akeredolu who became governor on February 2017 died on December 27, 2023 after battling with prostate cancer for several months while his remains were subsequently brought into the country from Germany on January 5, 2024.
A statement obtained from the Facebook profile of the spokesperson of the ex Governor, Richard Olatunde signed by the eldest son of the deceased Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, Jnr. revealed that the funeral arrangements will commence on Thursday, February 15, 2024 with a Winning Soul Crusade at MKO Abiola Democracy Park, Akure and will end with a thanksgiving service at St Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo on Sunday, February 25.
The statement reads: “With hearts overflowing with gratitude, the entire Akeredolu family wishes to extend our deepest appreciation to all those who have extended their warmth and compassion to us during this trying time, following the unfortunate transition of our beloved Patriarch, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, former Governor of Ondo State (February 2017 – December 2023). The outpouring of love we have received has been nothing short of a deluge, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.
“Your unwavering display of affection has touched our souls in immeasurable ways, and mere words cannot adequately express our gratitude. Your love and kindness serve as powerful catalysts, strengthening our unshakeable faith in God Almighty and reaffirming our commitment to serving humanity.
“To those who took the time to visit us in Ibadan and Owo, we extend our heartfelt appreciation. Your presence brought solace to our hearts, and your invaluable support lifted our spirits.”
According to the family, “Our gratitude also extends to the esteemed political leaders, revered royal fathers, devout religious leaders, community pillars, heads of security agencies, dedicated unionists, civil servants, public officials, student leaders, and women groups, as well as politicians from across party lines, who have shown us love and sympathy during this challenging period.
“It is with deep respect and a sense of duty that we invite our dear friends, associates, and well-wishers to join us in giving our late Patriarch a befitting funeral. The obsequies are as follows: Thursday, February 15, 2024: Winning Soul Crusade at MKO Abiola Democracy Park, Akure by 5pm. Friday, February 16, 2024: Jumat Service at Akure Central Mosque by 2pm”.
It stressed that, “Saturday, February 17, 2024: Loyola Day of Tributes at Loyola College Hall, Old Ife Rd, Agodi, Ibadan, Oyo State. Sunday, February 18, 2024: OAU Night of Tributes at OAU Secretariat, Old Ife Road, Agodi, Ibadan Oyo State between 4 pm- 6pm.
“Monday, February 19, 2024: Special Court Session at Oyo State Judiciary Complex, High Court 1, Ring Road Ibadan, Oyo State by 10 am. NBA Tribute Session Follows immediately @ Aare Afe Babalola Bar Centre, Iyagakun, Ibadan, Oyo State. Service of Songs/ Night of Tributes at Jogor Centre, Liberty Road, Ibadan between 5pm – 9 pm.”
Also, on “Tuesday, February 20, 2024: Commendation Service at All Saints Church, Jericho, Ibadan between 10 am – 12 Noon. Private Viewing (Strictly By Invitation) at Residence, Ibadan Oyo State by 3pm. Wednesday, February 21, 2024: Ajabue (Traditional Rites) Owo, Ondo State between 9 am – 4pm.”
The family stressed that there will be a Special Court Session at Court 1, Ondo State High Court Headquarters, Hospital Road, Akure, Ondo State by 10am while Lying in State and Commendation Service will hold at Akure Township Stadium by 1pm followed by Evening of Tributes St Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo between 4pm – 7pm.
“Thursday, February 22, 2024: Service of Songs at St Andrews Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, Ondo State by 4pm. Wake-Keep at Maranatha Villa, Owo, Ondo state by 8pm. Candlelight Procession and World Gyration by the Kegites Club from 8pm till Dawn. Friday, February 23, 2024: Funeral Service at St Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo by 10 am. Interment follows immediately after the burial service at the burial site, Owo. (Strictly for immediate family). Reception at Mydas Hotel and Resort, Ikare Road, Owo by 1pm.
“Saturday, February 24, 2024: Akeredolu Memorial Friendly football match at Akure Township Stadium, Akure by 3 pm. Sunday, February 25, 2024: Thanksgiving Service at St Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo by 10 am.”
Fidelis David in Akure
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