Burial: Akeredolu family thanks Tinubu, Aiyedatiwa, others

The family of the late former Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, has thanked President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for their contributions to the successful burial of the former governor.

The family in a statement signed by Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jnr., equally appreciated all the Southern Governors, Governors as well as Formers Governors for their support and show of camaraderie.

“We, the Akeredolu family, sincerely express our profound gratitude to all those who joined us in celebrating the life of our Patriarch, the Late Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your presence at the Service of Songs and Commendation Service in Ibadan, the traditional Ajabue procession, as well as the Service of Songs, Christian Wake, Burial Service, and reception in Owo, Ondo state.

“The outpouring of love was overwhelming, and we are deeply grateful for the support and solidarity shown to us. We do not take these gestures for granted.

“Your presence added glamour to the occasion and made it truly memorable. We consider these acts of kindness and support as uncommon privileges rather than entitlements. Thank you all.

“We would like to express our great appreciation and depth of gratitude to the following eminent personalities who generously supported us, either through their physical presence or in other ways.

“We particularly thank the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GCFR, for his display of love and brotherhood. Mr. President has shown immeasurable love and support for Aketi. He is indeed Aketi’s brother and friend.

“Mr. President, we thank you for taking the time to personally visit us in Owo. It meant a great deal to us, sir. Ese Pupo!

“Alongside the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, GCFR, we are grateful to the Vice-President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his dignified presence at the funeral ceremony.

“We are equally grateful to the Ondo State Government led by the Governor, Hon Lucky Aiyedatiwa for his presence in all the funeral programmes and the support we received.

“We deeply appreciate the show of camaraderie from all the Southern Governors, Governors as well as Formers Governors that supported us.

“Other groups of note include: Nigeria Governors Spouses’ Forum; APC National Executive Council led by the Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, GCON; Justices of the Supreme Court, Justices of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judge and Judges of the Federal High Court.

“Chief Judge and Judges of the Ondo State, Oyo State and Osun State led by Hon. Justice Olusegun Odusola; Hon. Justice Iyabo Yerimah and Hon. Justice Oyebola A. Ojo, respectively.

“Members of the National Assembly, Members of the Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji.

“Heads of Security Agencies in the State; Revered Royal fathers; Bishop and clergymen of the Anglican Communion, Owo Diocese; Vicar and Choir of All Saints Church, Jericho, Ibadan; Serving and Retired Bishops, Chief Imam, Pastors, and other religious leaders.

“National Judicial Council [NJC], Body of Benchers, President and executive members of the Nigerian Bar Association [NBA], Chairmen and members of NBA, Ibadan and Akure Branches, Senior Advocates of Nigeria.

“Forum of Permanent Secretaries in Ondo State; Loyola College Old Students Association; Obafemi Awolowo University [OAU] Alumni; Kegites CClb; Heads of State tertiary institutions and their Governing Councils.

“Friends and associates of our late patriarch both within and outside shores of Nigeria; Political Leaders across Parties; Market Women and Artisans.
“The people of Owo and Ondo State at large, as well as others too numerous to mention.

“We also acknowledge and appreciate, in no small measure, those who were unable to attend in person but reached out to us to show their love and support.

“To captains of industries, friends, acquaintances, extended family members, and all others who showed kindness and affection, we extend our heartfelt gratitude. Your generosity and unwavering love are truly priceless and immeasurable.

“Above all, we offer our deepest thanks and praise to God Almighty for His immense protection over all those who travelled from far and wide to grace the occasion. May His mercy and limitless favour continue to abide in us,” the statement reads.