The family of the late governor of Ondo state, Rotimi Akeredolu, has released the burial arrangement for the former governor, disclosing that the late governor would be buried on February 23, 2024, in his hometown, Owo in Owo Local Government Area of the state.
This was contained in a statement signed by his son, Oluwarotimi O. Akeredolu, Jnr, and made available to newsmen in Akure, the state capital.
The statement reads, “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, 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, Iyaganku, 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.
“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 1 pm.
“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, “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.
“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 will be recalled that 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.