The ancient city of Owo in Ondo state stood still on February 23rd, 2024 as President Bola Tinubu led other eminent Nigerians to give last respect to the late Governor of the state Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON, who passed away on December 27, 2023.
Among those present with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who was represented by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima were the Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, also governors from neighboring states, including 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. Ganduje and the wife of late prophet T.B Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua, members of the National Assembly among other political appointees and body of benchers.
Also in attendance from the Akeredolu family are Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, Prof. Oluwole Akeredolu, Dr Teniola Akeredolu, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu jnr, Babajide Akeredolu and Pastor Kola Akeredolu.
The funeral service held at the St. Andrews Church, Owo, attendees were reminded of the importance of contributing meaningful to the society with opportunities given to them.
The congregation received a solemn admonition to prioritize spiritual values over worldly possessions, emphasizing the significance of seeking the kingdom of God in all endeavors, especially in contemplation of life’s transience.
President Tinubu said that Nigeria has lost a man whose legacy will endure.
Tinubu emphasized that rather than mourning, it’s a day to celebrate Akeredolu’s life, time and his contributions to humanity.
The president described Akeredolu as a highly intelligent individual whose legacies will continue to reverberate in years to come.
Speaking, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, in his address emphasized that the church organized the service not because Akeredolu was aware of it, but because he was one of them
According to Aiyedatiwa, Akeredolu’s unwavering commitment to justice, rule of law and egalitarian society had earned him respect, recognition and fraternity beyond the shores of this country.
Aiyedatiwa stressed Akeredolu’s multifaceted impacts on the society, reflecting on the accolades and tributes bestowed upon him from various quarters.
He described the late 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.
In his sermon titled: “The Brevity of Life” delivered by The Anglican Bishop of Ikwerre and Archbishop of Niger Delta Province, Rev. Blessing Enyindah, who emphasized the transient nature of life and the importance of making a meaningful impact while on earth. Quoting from Psalm 39vs4-5.
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.
In a passionate plea, the cleric addressed the current challenges facing Nigeria, urging leaders to prioritize the welfare of citizens and alleviate the hardships caused by various crises, like the fuel subsidy removal, insecurity, and economic struggles.
He called upon President Bola Tinubu to take swift action, reminding all that time is of the essence in addressing these pressing issues.
Earlier, the late Akeredolu’s legal colleagues, acknowledging his esteemed status as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and a one-time Nigeria Bar Association president before his passing, solemnly brought his remains in a dark brown casket into the cathedral, a poignant gesture of solidarity among the legal fraternity.
The Bishop of Owo Anglican Diocese, Rt. Revd (Dr) Steven Ayodeji Fagbemi revealed plans to honor the late governor, who served as Chancellor of the Anglican Communion in Owo, by immortalizing him through the Anglican Medical and Diagnostic Center, which will be dedicated in his honor.
The remains of the late Governor, Akeredolu was latter interred at a private cemetery at Chapel of Epiphany which was strictly witnessed by his family members.
A reception ceremony was held for guests afterward at Mydas hotel & resorts