Ondo State Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa has announced that Thursday, February 22nd, and Friday, February 23rd, 2024, will be public holidays across the state.

This decision, as conveyed by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, is a mark of respect for the late former governor of the state, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who passed away last December.

The two designated days off are intended to allow the people of Ondo State to participate fully in the burial proceedings for the late governor. The schedule of events for the burial ceremonies, which commenced last Thursday, is as follows:

• Wednesday, February 21: Traditional Rites (Ajabue) in Owo from 9 am to 4 pm. A Special Court Session will be held at Court 1, Ondo State High Court Headquarters, Hospital Road, Akure, at 10 am. Lying in State and Commendation Service at Akure Township Stadium at 1 pm, followed by an Evening of Tributes at St. Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo, from 4 pm to 7 pm.
• Thursday, February 22 (public holiday): Service of Songs at St. Andrews Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, at 4 pm. Wake-Keep at Maranatha Villa, Owo, starting at 8 pm. Candlelight Procession & World Gyration by the Kegites Club from 8 pm until Dawn.
• Friday, February 23 (public holiday): Funeral Service at St. Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo, at 10 am. Interment follows immediately after the burial service at the burial site in Owo (strictly for immediate family). The reception is at the Mydas Hotel and Resort, Ikare Road, Owo, at 1 pm.
• Saturday, February 24, 2024: Akeredolu Memorial Friendly Football Match at Akure Township Stadium, Akure, starting at 3 pm.
• Sunday, February 25, 2024: Thanksgiving Service at St. Andrews Church, Imola Street, Owo, at 10 am.