Inland Club Ado Ekiti Pays Last Respect to former Ag. President, Akin Oluwadare Snr

Raheem Akingbolu

It was a solemn atmosphere on Thursday morning, as mournful faces of friends and family of late Chief Joseph Akintayo Oluwadare, thronged the Okesha, Ado Ekiti Inland Club for the lying in state, organised by the leadership of the club in honour of its departed former President.

Oluwadare, a politician, businessman, and public affairs analyst, was one of the leading political figures in Ekiti during his lifetime. He died on May 22, 2025, at age 63.

As part of the four days activities lined up to bid the former Inland Club President a final goodbye, the lying in state at the Club House was specially organised to celebrate the late politician, who many members described as an intelligent, resourceful and proactive member during his time at the great club.

In a special tribute, the current president of the club, Mr. Ayodele Adeitan described the late former Chairman of Ekiti West Local Government as a man whose life was a testament to service, leadership, and community development.

“Otunba Akin Oluwadare, a stalwart of our club, has left an indelible mark on our lives, and we come together to celebrate his legacy,” Adeitan said.

He also stated that the late politician, during his stint as Caretaker Chairman of the Club, demonstrated exceptional leadership, guiding the club through challenging times and fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Adeitan added that Oluwadare’s vision for the club’s growth and development inspired others noting that his contributions have continued to resonate with them all.

The peak of the event was when members stood up to file round the casket to pay last respect. As they made turns to pay their last respect to the remains of their departed colleague amid murmured prayers, emotions filled the hall, and tears dropped uncontrollably.

Meanwhile, in line with the club’s tradition, the President presented a gift to the family and extended a warm invitation to any member of the family who might want to join Inland Club, to, at least sustain the legacy left behind by the late Oluwadare.

Reacting to the honour done to the departed soul, Mr. Akin Oluwadare Jnr, the younger brother of the late politician, who spoke on behalf of the family, said he was not surprised that Inland Club stood by the family, given the club’s legendary profile of camaraderie and companionship.

He said, “Though this is our low moment because we have just lost a darling brother, father, uncle and friend but with an event like this, we can be sure that Chief Akin Oluwadare Snr., the Saribi of Aramoko Ekiti, didn’t die in vain. Since May 2022, when he passed on, there have been a torrent of tributes from various quarters on how impactful his life was. To members of Inland Club, we appreciate you for today’s event, and we didn’t take it for granted