The family of the late Rotimi Akeredolu, former governor of Ondo state, has announced arrangements for his burial rites.
A statement signed by Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu Jnr, the late governor’s son, on Monday, said the funeral arrangements will begin on February 15 with a winning soul crusade at MKO Abiola Democracy Park, Akure, Ondo’s capital, and will end with a thanksgiving service at St Andrews Church, Imola street, Owo, on February 25.
“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 statement said.
“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.”
The family also extended their gratitude to political leaders, royal fathers, religious and community leaders, heads of security agencies, unionists, 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”.
THE BURIAL RITES
To give the late governor a “befitting funeral”, the family listed the arrangements as follows:
Thursday, February 15, 2024:
Winning Soul Crusade at MKO Abiola Democracy Park, Akure
Time: 5 pm
Friday, February 16, 2024:
Jumat Service at Akure Central Mosque
Time: 2 pm
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.
Time: 4 pm- 6 pm
Monday, February 19, 2024:
Special Court Session
Oyo State Judiciary Complex,
High Court 1, Ring Road
Ibadan, Oyo State.
Time: 10 am
NBA Tribute Session
Follows immediately @ Aare Afe Babalola Bar Centre,
Iyagakun, Ibadan, Oyo State
Service of Songs/ Night of Tributes
Jogor Centre, Liberty Road,
Ibadan
Time: 5 pm – 9 pm
Tuesday, February 20, 2024:
Commendation Service
All Saints Church, Jericho, Ibadan
Time: 10 am – 12 Noon
Private Viewing (Strictly By Invitation)
Residence, Ibadan Oyo State
Time: 3 pm
Wednesday, February 21, 2024:
Ajabue (Traditional Rites)
Owo, Ondo State
Time: 9 am – 4 pm
Special Court Session
Court 1, Ondo State High Court Headquarters,
Hospital Road, Akure, Ondo State
Time: 10 am
Lying in State and Commendation Service
Akure Township Stadium
Time: 1 pm
Evening of Tributes
St Andrews Church,
Imola Street, Owo
Time:4pm – 7 pm
Thursday, February 22, 2024:
Service of Songs
St Andrews Cathedral, Imola Street,
Owo, Ondo State.
Time: 4 pm
Wake-Keep
Maranatha Villa, Owo,
Ondo state
Time: 8 pm
Candlelight Procession & World Gyration
by the Kegites Club
Time: 8 pm till Dawn
Friday, February 23, 2024:
Funeral Service at St Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo.
Time: 10 am
Saturday, February 24, 2024:
Akeredolu Memorial Friendly football match
Akure Township Stadium, Akure.
Time: 3 pm
Sunday, February 25, 2024:
Thanksgiving Service at St Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo
Time: 10 am
The statement said the interment, which would follow immediately after the burial service at the burial site in Owo, is strictly for immediate family members, adding that a reception at Midas Hotel and Resort, Ikare Road, would follow by 1 pm.