The Ondo State Government (ODSG), led by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, along with former Governor Olusegun Mimiko, the Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology (OAUSTECH) Council, and the Akure community, gathered to pay their final respects to the late Hon. Temitayo Oluseye Oluwatuyi, a former Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
The solemn funeral ceremony, preceded by a wake on Friday, February 7, was held at CAC Oke-Isegun, Akure, on Saturday, February 8, 2025.
A Life of Service and Legacy
During the funeral thanksgiving service, Pastor (Dr.) Henry Ojo, President of CAC Worldwide, delivered a moving sermon, stressing the certainty of death and the need to be spiritually prepared.
He reminded attendees, quoting Ecclesiastes, that there is “a time to be born and a time to die.”
The event witnessed tributes from key political figures and institutions recognizing Oluwatuyi’s remarkable contributions to governance and public service.
Tributes from Leaders and Institutions
President Bola Tinubu expressed his condolences, emphasizing the late SSG’s distinguished service. “Oluwatuyi served with distinction and many recognitions before his reappointment by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa,” Tinubu stated.
He acknowledged Oluwatuyi’s “unwavering dedication to the people of Ondo State, significantly contributing to policy coordination and implementation.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa described the loss as profound, not just for the government and people of Ondo State, but for everyone who values excellence in public service.
“We shared intimate bonds as friends and political associates. We have lost an invaluable asset, who served the Sunshine State with distinction and deployed his wealth of experience to enrich policy formulation and implementation,” he remarked.
Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire (Ondo Central Senatorial District) highlighted Oluwatuyi’s leadership qualities, calling him “one of our finest sons, remembered for his diligence and unwavering commitment to service.”
In a statement, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun described him as “a patriot who served his state with utmost good faith, positively impacting lives through numerous philanthropic endeavors.”
Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development, also honored Oluwatuyi’s legacy, stating, “He was a true friend and an inspiration. His wisdom, selflessness, and commitment to Ondo State’s growth touched countless lives.”
The Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba Dr. Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, acknowledged his devoted service to the state.
“Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi served the Ondo State Government faithfully and passionately during his lifetime.”
Institutional Condolences
Former Governor Olusegun Mimiko paid his respects, saying, “Olukemi and I deeply mourn the passing of Tayo Oluwatuyi, a distinguished public officer, a gentleman, and a cherished member of our community.”
OAUSTECH Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Temi Ologunorisa, noted Oluwatuyi’s immense contributions to education: “He was a very humble and articulate politician and administrator.
His leadership, wisdom, and expertise will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate us.
As a key member of OAUSTECH’s Governing Council, Oluwatuyi played a significant role in shaping the institution’s development.
“His unwavering passion for education and his commitment to our university community were remarkable. His contributions will be greatly missed,” Ologunorisa added.
Oyemekun Grammar School, Akure, his alma mater, also remembered him fondly: “Hon. Tayo Oluwatuyi was an extraordinary alumnus. His generosity and impact on our school shall never be forgotten.”
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) honored his memory, with Rev. Father Anselm Olorunfemi Ologunwa stating, “His legacy of selfless service, integrity, and compassion will continue to inspire and motivate us.”
A Life of Achievement and Dedication
Fondly known as Tuykana, Hon. Temitayo Oluwatuyi was born on May 1, 1962, into the family of Chief Bankole Joseph Oluwatuyi, Lisa of Akure Kingdom, and Mrs. Aina Juliana Oluwatuyi (née Adedipe).
He attended St. David/Mathias Primary School, Oyemekun Grammar School (1973-1978), and CMS Grammar School, Bariga Lagos, for his Higher School Certificate (1979-1980).
He later graduated from the University of Lagos in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science in Economics, Finance, and Management. As a student, he excelled in sports, captaining the university’s volleyball team.
His professional career spanned both the private and public sectors.
A fellow of the Chartered Institute of Administration, the Chartered Institute of Public Administration, and the Chartered Institute of Business Management, he held several key governmental positions, including:
Chairman, Caretaker Committee, Akure South Local Government (June 2009)
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (2011)
Commissioner for Natural Resources (2019)
Secretary to the State Government (SSG) (July 2020 – February 2021, January 2024 – January 2025)
Until his passing, he served as a Governing Council member at OAUSTECH, contributing significantly to the institution’s growth.
Hon. Temitayo Oluwatuyi’s death is a great loss to Ondo State, but his impact, dedication, and unwavering service will remain a lasting legacy.
