The final rites for High Chief Chris Olatubara Ikutiminu commenced on Thursday with a series of solemn ceremonies attended by family members, associates, and dignitaries in Lagos and Ondo State.
The lying-in-state was first held at St. Luke’s Anglican Church, Ijeshatedo, Lagos, where sympathisers paid their last respects to the deceased, whose life and legacy were described as impactful and exemplary.
Proceedings later moved to his hometown, Ode-Aye in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, where a heritage farewell was held at the Okerisha Family Compound.
The event, which ran from 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m., featured tributes from family members and community leaders, who extolled the virtues of the late High Chief and his contributions to the development of his community.
This was followed by a lying-in-state at the Ode-Aye Town Hall, where residents and well-wishers gathered between 4:00 p.m. and 4:40 p.m. to honour the departed.
A Christian wake later took place at his residence, located at 1 Olatubara Avenue, Ode-Aye, drawing a large turnout of mourners who offered prayers and words of comfort to the bereaved family.
The funeral rites will culminate on Friday with a funeral and thanksgiving service scheduled to hold at St. Christopher’s Anglican Church, Ode-Aye, between 10:00 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Dignitaries at the ceremonies include Chief Vice Admiral Akintunde Aduwo (rtd), the Taarelase of Ife and Obateru of Aye Kingdom; President of FOADA, Chief Engr. Gbenga Olatujoye; and Process Caroline Abeke Eniola, among others.
Late Ikutiminu is remembered for his commitment to community development and his role as a respected traditional figure, whose legacy continues to resonate among his people.
