President Bola Tinubu, along with other Nigerians, paid their final respects to former Ondo state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu on Friday, February 23.
During the funeral ceremony held at the St. Andrew’s Cathedral in Owo, President Tinubu praised Akeredolu as a fearless leader and unwavering advocate for the people, describing him as an indomitable legacy of national service.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu commended Akeredolu’s courage, dedication, and steadfastness, noting that he never wavered in speaking the truth.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State also expressed his gratitude to Akeredolu for his impactful governance, highlighting his contributions to various sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
In his homily, Primate of the Church of Nigeria, Anglican Communion, Dr. Henry Ndukuba, urged President Tinubu to address the hardships faced by Nigerians, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
The Anglican Church’s Owo Diocese honored the late governor by naming a medical and diagnostic center after him, emphasizing the importance of completing the project to preserve his memory.
The funeral was attended by notable dignitaries which includes Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, National Chairman of All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje led other members of the National Working Committee of the party, Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ekiti, Aboidun Oyebanji, Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Aboidun, Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Makinde, Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, former Governor of Ogun State, Ibikunle Amosun.
Others were former Ondo Governor, Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, wife of late Prophet Temitope Joshua, Pastor Evelyn Joshua amongst others.
Akeredolu was laid to rest at a newly consecrated burial site in Owo, becoming the first person to be buried there.