Former Ekiti State governor, Ayodele Fayose, has publicly revealed his burial preferences, declaring that the Ekiti State Government should take charge of his remains when he dies.
Fayose made the remarks in a video played during his 65th birthday celebration on Saturday, November 15. The clip, which documented parts of his political journey and achievements, featured the former governor outlining in clear terms how he wants his funeral handled.
In the emotional footage, Fayose said his body “belongs to the Ekiti State Government” and instructed that his burial must be conducted within four weeks of his death to allow the state adequate preparation time.
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“Remember me for anything. And when I die, let me say this: death is inevitable. My body belongs to the Ekiti State Government,” he said.
“Ekiti State Government takes over my body, and I must be buried within four weeks; because the state might not be ready within two or three days, we will allow them four weeks.”
He added that his children and family members should mourn privately and wear what they deem fit on the burial day.
According to Fayose, he has already designated a burial site in the garden of his grandmother’s home—his father’s mother—and instructed that the resting place should not be visited after his burial.
“After my departure, nobody must come there again. Allow me to go. If you want to show me love, if you want to take care of me, do so now,” he added.
Fayose, who served as governor of Ekiti twice—between 2003 and 2006 and later from 2014 to 2018 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)—marked his 65th birthday with tributes from political allies and opponents.
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President Bola Tinubu congratulated him in a State House statement, commending Fayose’s boldness and consistency in Nigerian politics.
“Whether right or wrong, former governor Fayose is never afraid to say his mind without minding whose ox is gored,” the President said, describing him as a steadfast political figure.
“As his elder brother, I value his support for me and my administration.”
Tinubu also prayed for continued good health and long life for the former governor, wishing him more years of service to humanity.
