Late Ondo SSG Oluwatuyi Laid to Rest Amid Emotional Tributes
Tears flowed freely on Saturday in Akure, the capital of Ondo State, as the remains of the late Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Temitayo Oluwatuyi (Tuykana), were laid to rest.
The late SSG was buried in a private cemetery along the Akure/Ondo Road in the state capital.
Oluwatuyi, who passed away following a tragic car accident on Sunday, December 15, 2024, while en route to Ibadan, Oyo State, had been receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital before his death.
Before his burial, a night of reflection and tributes was held in his honor, where politicians, family members, and associates gathered to celebrate his life and legacy.
Emotions ran high as family, friends, and well-wishers watched the body of the Akure-born grassroots politician being lowered into the grave.
During the outing and thanksgiving service at the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, Akure, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, described the late SSG as an exemplary public servant whose life was devoted to service, leadership, and the development of the community.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, reflecting on the inevitability of death, quoted Ecclesiastes 3:2 and Job 14:5 from the Holy Bible, emphasizing that each life is determined by God.
Though deeply saddened by Oluwatuyi’s passing, the Governor urged the congregation to find comfort in the remarkable legacy he left behind.
“Hon. Oluwatuyi, affectionately known as Tuykana, has paid his debt. His contributions to Ondo State’s development and grassroots politics were significant. He was a compassionate leader who worked tirelessly to uplift those around him. His steadfast dedication to public service earned him the respect and admiration of his people,” Governor Aiyedatiwa said.
He went on to describe the late Oluwatuyi as a political giant and a unifying figure in the state, having served as a local government chairman, Commissioner for Natural Resources, and twice as the Secretary to the State Government.
The Governor acknowledged that Oluwatuyi’s death leaves a major void but urged everyone to celebrate his legacy and be inspired by his commitment to the growth and progress of Ondo State.
In his sermon, “Prepare to Meet Your Appointment with Your Maker,” Pastor Henry Ojo, President of the Christ Apostolic Church, Nigeria and Overseas, highlighted the certainty of death and the importance of spiritual preparedness.
He stressed that death is an inevitable journey that leads every individual, regardless of status, to their final meeting with God.
The deceased’s daughter, Mrs. Jumoke Adeola, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported the family during their time of mourning.
She thanked Governor Aiyedatiwa, the Ondo State Government, political and religious leaders, friends, and well-wishers for their prayers, presence, and unwavering support during their grief.