A large assemblages of prominent Nigerians on Friday converged on Epe town, Lagos to bid farewell to former Governor of Lagos State, Sir Michael Otedola, who was buried at Odoragushin, his home town.
President Goodluck Jonathan, his wife, Patience, and former President Olusegun Obasanjo were at the burial which also had in attendance, Governors Babatunde Fashola of Lagos, Ibikunle Amosu of Ogun, Peter Obi (Anambra), Minister of Agriculture, Dr Akinwunmi Adeshina and Minister of State for Defence, Musiliu Obanikoro.
Also present were former Ekiti State Governor, Niyi Adebayo, Director General of Nigeria Security and Exchange Commission, Aruma Oteh, and former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu.
Billionaire businessman, Aliko Dangote and former Managing Director of Zenith Bank, Jim Ovia, were also at the event with some other captains of the industry.
Speaking briefly during the funeral mass held at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Ibuwon, Jonathan described late Otedola as a man who lived a life of accomplishments.
“Late Otedola brought a characteristic level of uncompromising diligence and commitment to bear on his service to God, country and community,” he said.
He condoled with the family over the loss, praying to God to grant them the fortitude to bear the loss.
Obasanjo described Otedola as a kind-hearted man and a leader with firmness of purpose. “History will record that when providence placed him in a position of influence and power, he touched many lives in a positive way,” he said.
Fashola said that Otedola left a footprint of excellence and service in spite of his short tenure as governor.
He said that the late governor was a model of “politics without bitterness” as he tactfully engaged and accommodated his political adversaries as governor, adding that Lagosians would forever be grateful to the deceased for his exemplary leadership.
Amosun described late Otedola as an ambassador of good values, adding that his generosity and leadership qualities were remarkable. “Everyone, who knows him, testifies to his disciplined lifestyle and gentle disposition,” he said.
Dangote said the former governor was an achiever who served the people conscientiously when he was governor.
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