By Precious Oluwole

Tears, memories, and glowing tributes filled the air at Akure City Hall on Thursday as Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, government officials, associates, and loved ones gathered to honor the late Secretary to the Ondo State Government, Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi.

The solemn night of tributes highlighted his legacy of service, leadership, and integrity, with speakers reflecting on his lasting impact on the state and its people.

According to Governor Aiyedatiwa death is not the opposite of life but part of it. He added that the Late Oluwatuyi’s passage left a vacuum in everyone’s heart.

The Governor who was represented by His Deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, stressed that Late Oluwatuyi’s life is a testament to dedication, perseverance and selfless service, adding that he embodied the value of integrity.

“His legacy is left in the heart of so many people. His life’s worth will keep guiding us towards a brighter future in Ondo State. He has contributed his own quota and must not allow his legacy to wither away”.

While commiserating with the family of Late Temitayo Oluwatuyi, he urged them to take solace in God.

Earlier in his address, the Chairman, planning committee, Prince Segun Omojuwa noted that Late Oluwatuyi has impacted so many lives, thereby, deserved to be celebrated.

He added that the Former Secretary to the State Government’s contribution to the state is truly remarkable and will never be forgotten. He stressed that he had lived an impactful and eventful life and would be greatly missed.

He described Late Oluwatuyi as consummate politician, courageous and optimistic.

The deceased’s cousin, Pastor Mrs Odunayo Ketiku stated that his death will be greatly felt by those he left behind. “Your death feels like a dream and I wished it was, you were a source of encouragement to many. We will continue to remember you”.

Former Commisoner for Information, Otunba Wale Akinlosotu who spoke on behalf of the immediate past members of the State Executive Council described the deceased as a great man, an administrator per excellence, a leader worthy of emulation. He added that his good works will forever live in the hearts of everyone.

Sepaking on behalf of the deceased’s classmates, Mr Kolawole Gbadamosi stated that his legacy and memory will forever live in their hearts. “He was more than just a colleague to us, he was truly exceptional, over 4 decades, he was able to locate of 80 percent of us both far and near, giving us the opportunity to come together and strengthen our bond, this is a testament to his leadership qualities”.

The Chairman Elect, Akure South Local Government, Hon. Gbenga Fasua who spoke on behalf of Akure community, noted that Late Oluwatuyi was a father to all and someone who lived his life to the glory of God. He stressed that Akure people will forever remember his good deeds.

Mr Ayo Ikusemiju, who spoke on behalf of the entire staff of the Secretary to the State Government’s office, described his late boss as an astute technocrat, highly reserved and a good leader who exhibited humility and calmness and carried out his duties diligently. A man full of compassion and always open to ideas.

APC Chairman, Central Senatorial District, Festus Aregbesola, described Late Oluwatuyi as a dedicated party member, a man who brought a lot of people together under his umbrella in Akure South Local Government, a man of exceptional unity, a force to recon with in Akure and Ondo State as a whole.

Speaking on behalf of the family members, Mrs Yetunde Armstrong, appreciated God for the life he lived. She described him as someone who cherished family and friendship. She stressed that he had left the family a good name and reputation.

In attendance were; The State Chairman of APC, Engr Ade Adetimehin, Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, members of the Ondo State House of Assembly led by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, immediate past members of the State Executive Council.