Makinde pays tribute to late father at 14th memorial service

By Adejayan Gbenga

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has paid glowing tribute to his late father, Pa Olatunbosun Makinde, describing him as a candid adviser whose honest counsel continues to inspire him 14 years after his death.

Speaking on Sunday after a memorial service held at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Aremo, Ibadan, the governor said his father’s death created a deep vacuum in his life, noting that he still misses the sincere guidance and friendship they shared.

Makinde said his father was one of the few people who could speak the truth to him without fear, regardless of how difficult the circumstances were. According to him, the late patriarch remained a trusted confidant who always offered honest advice.

“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, Most Rev. Williams Aladekugbe, described Pa Olatunbosun Makinde as a devoted Christian who dedicated his life to serving God, the Church and humanity. He urged Christians to emulate the late Makinde’s exemplary life of faith, humility and service.

The bishop also congratulated Governor Makinde on the recent rescue of abducted teachers and pupils from Oriire Local Government Area. He commended the peaceful atmosphere witnessed in Oyo State over the past seven years and said the governor’s political future rests in God’s hands.

As part of the memorial activities, Governor Makinde laid wreaths at the graves of his late father and his mother, Madam Abigail Makinde, who died in October 2020 and was buried in December of the same year.

The governor was joined at the memorial service by his elder brother, Barrister Muyiwa Makinde, members of the Oyo State Executive Council, religious leaders, government officials and family members who gathered to honour the memory and enduring legacy of the late Pa Olatunbosun Makinde.