From Jimoh Ahmed, Owo & Adedotun Ajayi

The remains of the late Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, will today, Friday, be committed to mother earth in Owo, his hometown.

His remains has been moved to Owo after series of activities in honour of the former Governor held in both Ibadan, the Oyo State capital and Akure, the Ondo State capital.

In Owo, tears flowed freely as a large crowd struggled to catch a glimpse of the casket conveying his remains entered the ancient city.

On Thursday, the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew, Imola, Owo, was filled with family, friends, and dignitaries gathered to pay their respect to the late Governor.

The Christian wake-keep service commenced with first Bible reading from Ecclesiastes 3:1-14, delivered by the deceased’s first son, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jr.

In his brief exhortation titled “A Life of Purpose,” Acts 13:36, Archbishop Simon Borokini drew parallels between the biblical figure of David and the late Governor Akeredolu.

Borokini emphasized the importance of living a purpose-driven life, devoid of self-enrichment, echoing David’s commitment to serving his people. He lauded Governor Akeredolu’s numerous achievements in government, highlighting his dedication to public service until his last breath.

In attendance from the Akeredolu’s family included Prof. Oluwole Akeredolu, Babajide Akeredolu, Dr. Teniola Akeredolu, Yejide Runsewe, Pastor Kola Akeredolu and Oluwarotimi Akeredolu jnr.

Among dignitaries who were present at the church included Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, wife of the former governor of Ekiti state, Mrs Bisi Fayemi, Speaker Ondo State House of Assembly, Chief Olamide Oladiji, Chairman APC in Ondo state, Mr Ade Adetimehin, among others.

As prayers were offered to comfort the grieving family, touching tributes were paid by Mr. Johnson Ogunmola and the Cathedral Choir through soulful songs in honor of Akeredolu.

Representing the Owo Anglican Diocese, Deputy Chancellor Oladipo Okpeseyi fondly remembered late Akeredolu as a proud Anglican whose legacy of service to the Anglican community will forever be cherished.

The Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayade Ariwoola, represented by Justice Keji Ogunwunmiju, Justice of the Supreme Court, reminiscenced about the late governor’s humility and sense of humor, which endeared him to all who knew him.

Former Minister of State for Transportation Prince Ademola Adegoroye celebrated Governor Akeredolu’s zest for life and unwavering commitment to making Ondo State a better place.

 He hailed the late governor’s instrumental role in securing approval for the Ondo State Deep Sea Port, a project close to his heart.

In his tribute, Prince Adegoroye highlighted Akeredolu’s integrity, courage, and dedication to his ideals, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed his path. He said as mourners reflected on the legacy of the departed leader, they found solace in celebrating a life well-lived, marked by profound contributions to the betterment of society.

As the night wore on, the echoes of heartfelt tributes and solemn prayers filled the cathedral, serves as testament to the enduring legacy of Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, whose spirit will continue to inspire generations to come.

Oluwarotimi Akeredolu jnr extended heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the entire Akeredolu’s family to everybody for gracing the occasion.

 He said their participation and support have truly made the ceremony a memorable one.

There was also a candle light procession in honour of the former Governor.

Meanwhile, many people broke down in tears weeping like babies as emotions overtook them at the evening of tributes organised by the Anglican Diocese which took place at the Saint Andrew’s Church Cathedral, Imola, Owo on Wednesday.

In his sermon, titled, “Life Worthy of Emulation”, Bishop of Owo Anglican Diocese, Dr Stephen Fagbemi, disclosed that Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, was the first lay person to be done the honour of evening of tributes, and that only two persons to have had the honour before him, were Bishops of the Diocese.

Fagbemi said the late Akeredolu was being done the honour for being a man of genuine faith who was able to draw a line between christianity and politics, although not a perfect man.

The Bishop went further to give the qualities of the former Governor which earned him the honour as being a politician with a difference, and not given to frivolities as he always made promises and fulfil them apart from taking the plights of his people seriously as exemplified by the creation of the Amotekun Corps.

Other qualities mentioned by the Bishop were, understanding the needs of the people and responding to them, and being blunt and speaking truth to power.

“He was fearless, he was truthful, speaking truth to power, even when it was painful. He was courageous in raising issues and following them through. This is seen in his agitation for a southern presidency which finally aided the coming of the present administration in the country, one of the politically battles he fought in his life without minding if his own political party is not happy about it.

Bishop Fagbemi, therefore, enjoined the political class and the people to emulate him.