Family, friends, and community members gathered in Efon Alaaye, Ekiti State, to bid an emotional farewell to Otunba Olakunle Lawrence Akinyele, a retired Customs officer and respected community leader, who was laid to rest on Friday, May 9, amid tears and heartfelt tributes.
Otunba Akinyele, aged 62, tragically passed away on April 19 during the 60th birthday celebration of his wife. He collapsed while delivering a thanksgiving speech, turning what was meant to be a joyful occasion into one of shock and sorrow for family, friends, and guests.
The burial rites began on Thursday, May 8, with a Christian wake held at his residence in Efon Alaaye. The following day, his remains were brought into the town around 10:00 a.m., received by a solemn convoy of mourners including family, friends, and associates. The procession moved through the street to his home at Oke Oniyo, where he was laid in state.
A funeral service was held at Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), Oke Igbala, Efon Alaaye, drawing a large crowd of sympathizers, dignitaries, and members of the community. Otunba Akinyele was later committed to the earth at his private residence.
The atmosphere was heavy with emotion as his wife, children, and other close family members wept profusely during the proceedings. Scenes of mourning played out as those in attendance struggled to come to terms with his sudden passing.
Sympathizers described him as a man of principle, humility, and deep compassion—widely respected for his disciplined lifestyle, generosity, and commitment to community development.
Among those present were traditional rulers, community leaders, retired and serving public officers, business associates, and a host of well-wishers, all of whom paid glowing tributes to the late customs officer.
Otunba Akinyele is survived by his aged parents, wife, children, and siblings.
