The final journey of former Ondo State governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Otunba Bamidele Akingboye (OBA), begins today as family members, political associates, business partners, traditional rulers and well wishers converge on Okitipupa for a five day programme of burial activities in his honour.
The burial rites commence with a cultural parade and road walk (Ogwegwe), scheduled to take off from Jimba Residence, New Garage, Okitipupa, at 7:00 a.m. This will be followed by traditional rites at his residence by 10:00 a.m. and a Service of Songs at 4:00 p.m., with activities continuing through the night.
Proceedings continue on Thursday with the movement of the remains from the mortuary, a lying in state at the SDP Ondo South Secretariat beside the main market on Hospital Road, another lying in state at the family house on Ewi Street, a Christian Wake Keep at his residence on Jimba Street, and traditional rites and a cultural night.
The funeral service is billed for Friday at The Apostolic Faith Church, behind Ogudubuja High School, Okitipupa, beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at his residence, while a reception and entertainment are scheduled for Fiesta Events Centre along the Bye Pass, Okitipupa.
The ceremonies will conclude on Saturday with the final traditional family rites and on Sunday with a thanksgiving service at The Apostolic Faith Church, followed by the launch of the OBA Foundation Project at the late politician’s residence.
The Akingboye family described the late businessman, philanthropist and political leader as a man whose life was defined by service, integrity and compassion, saying the burial programme is intended to celebrate “a life that mattered” and an enduring legacy that touched countless lives.
Otunba Akingboye, who was the SDP governorship candidate in the 2024 Ondo State election, died at the age of 60, with tributes pouring in from across the political, business and traditional institutions in recognition of his contributions to the state and beyond.
