Makinde Pays Emotional Tribute to Late Father at 14th Memorial Service

Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Sunday paid glowing tribute to his late father, Pa Olatunbosun Makinde, describing him as a candid adviser who never hesitated to tell him the truth, regardless of how difficult it was.

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Speaking after a memorial service marking the 14th anniversary of his father’s passing at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, Ibadan, the governor said he still deeply misses his father, whom he described as both a mentor and a close friend.

Makinde said the greatest void left by his father’s death was the loss of someone who could always offer sincere and honest counsel.
“My father was my friend, and when he passed away, I lost a close companion. What I miss most is that he was the only person who could look me in the eyes and tell me the truth, even when I did not want to hear it,” the governor said.

In his sermon, the Bishop of Ibadan North Diocese, the Most Rev. Williams Aladekugbe, described the late Pa Olatunbosun Makinde as a devoted Christian who dedicated his life to serving God, the Church and humanity.

The bishop noted that the late Makinde remained a committed member of the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, throughout his lifetime and urged Christians to emulate his exemplary life of faith, humility and selfless service.

He also congratulated Governor Makinde on the recent rescue of abducted teachers and pupils from Oriire Local Government Area, while commending the peaceful atmosphere that has prevailed in Oyo State during the governor’s seven years in office.

According to the cleric, the governor’s political future ultimately rests in the hands of God.
Earlier, Governor Makinde laid wreaths at the graves of his late father and his mother, Madam Abigail Makinde, who died on October 15, 2020, at the age of 81 and was buried on December 5, 2020.

The governor was accompanied by his elder brother, Barrister Muyiwa Makinde, members of the Oyo State Executive Council, government officials, Christian leaders and family members.
Among those in attendance were the Commissioner for Lands, Housing and Urban Development, Mr. Williams Akin-Funmilayo; Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Hon. Segun Olayiwola; Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi; Executive Assistant to the Governor on Administration, Rev. Idowu Ogedengbe; Chairman of the Oyo State Pilgrims Welfare Board (Christian Wing), Bishop Ademola Morakinyo; Government House Chaplain, Pastor Layi Adisa; Special Assistant on Interfaith Affairs, Rev. Femi Ibikunle; and Mr. Peter Eledan.