Funeral arrangements for the former Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, will commence on Thursday with a Winning Soul Crusade in Akure, the state capital.

According to a statement issued by the family and posted on social media platforms on Thursday, the event will begin at 5 pm at the MKO Abiola Democracy Park in Akure.

Akeredolu died at a hospital in Germany, on December 26, 2023, after a long battle with leukaemia and prostate cancer.

Following the passage of Akeredolu, his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was sworn in as Governor by the State Chief Judge, Olusegun Odunsola.

Mr Aiyedatiwa, in his inaugural speech, declared a three-day mourning, with all flags to be flown at half mast, that was effective from Thursday, 28th December.

The funeral arrangements for the late former Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, will commence today with a Winning Soul Crusade scheduled to hold at the MKO Abiola Democracy Park in Akure, the state capital.

The event will begin at 5 pm.

Arakunrin Akeredolu peacefully departed in his sleep at a Hospital in Germany, where he was undergoing treatment for prostate cancer on the 26th of December 2023, and has since joined the ranks of the heavenly saints.

This profound loss has left us devastated and filled with sorrow. However, we find solace in the remarkable work and enduring legacy he left behind.

During his tenure as the Governor of Ondo State from February 24, 2017, until December 26, 2023, Arakunrin Akeredolu prioritized the welfare of the people and delivered dividend of good governance with tangible benefits.

In the face of protracted insecurity that plagued the Southwest, with the menace of killer herdsmen terrorizing and abducting innocent citizens, the late Akeredolu fearlessly stood at the forefront, defended the rights of the people with unflinching courage and resilience. His commitment to the collective well-being of the people has left an indelible mark on the state.

As we bid farewell, we acknowledge that our parting is not one of finality. Instead, we commit ourselves to preserving his memory and upholding the noble deeds he accomplished throughout his life. Even in death, his influence remains steadfast, for he shall forever be our guiding light and inspirational leader.