Eminent Nigerians gathered today in the ancient town of Owo, Ondo State, to pay their last respects to former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, whose final funeral rites took place at St. Andrew Anglican Church, Imola, Owo.
The late former Nigeria Bar (NBA) president’s body was interred after a solemn funeral service.
The funeral events commenced with rites in Ibadan, where Akeredolu resided and practiced law before venturing into politics. His remains were then transported to Akure before reaching his hometown of Owo.
Yesterday, Akeredolu’s kinsmen performed the traditional Ajabue dance as part of the funeral proceedings, believed by the Owo people to signify the passage of the deceased to heaven. The procession, led by children and relatives of the former governor, started from the Ijebu-Owo home of the deceased.
A participant, Mr. Ola Olusegun, explained that the Ajabue rite is performed to facilitate the deceased’s entry into heaven, with specific ceremonial roles assigned to male and female participants.
Notable attendees at the ceremony included former Commissioner for Infrastructure, Lands, and Housing, Raimi Aminu; Members of the House of Assembly, Oluwole Ogunmolasuyi and Morenike Witherspoon; and various other dignitaries.
In heartfelt tributes, former Secretary to Government, Mrs. Oladunni Odu, lauded Akeredolu’s courage and integrity, recalling instances where he fearlessly spoke truth to power.
Expressing gratitude, Akeredolu’s son, Babajide, thanked the community for their support, emphasizing the overwhelming display of love for his family.
During the service of songs held yesterday, the family found solace in the testimonies and tributes, affirming Akeredolu’s impactful life. Professor Wole Akeredolu, speaking on behalf of the family, thanked attendees for their support and love for the late patriarch.
Dignitaries from across the country, including government officials and religious leaders, attended the service, where the Bishop of Owo Anglican Diocese, Rt. Rev Stephen Fagbemi, hailed Akeredolu as a visionary leader devoted to God’s work.
In a brief exhortation, Most Reverend Simeon Borokini commended Akeredolu’s service to the people of the state.
Among the attendees were Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami, and various other political figures and religious leaders.
