Human rights activist and lawyer, Bamidele Francis Aturu, was today buried in his country-home of Ogbagi Akoko, Ondo State as family members, friends and admirers wailed.
Mr. Aturu’s remains were laid in state briefly at Ajatu High School in Ogbagi Akoko, with his professional colleagues, fans and family extolling his life and work. Two themes ran through the numerous tributes to the deceased: that he was a deeply principled lawyer and served as a conscientious man of the people.
In his sermon, Pastor Bamidele Olotu of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), reminded all mourners that death was certain for all humans, regardless of how mighty or low they were on earth.
Pastor Olotu said Mr. Aturu had gone from the sinful world, but that the late lawyer’s legacy would be cherished by many.
Quoting from Psalm 90 verses 10-12, the cleric lamented how many human beings struggle on earth without knowing how short they would live. He urged believers to prepare for eternity, and to eschew ungodly acts.
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“Death is certain for everyone. That is why we must all be prepared to meet God. It is our greatest joy that Bamidele Francis Aturu knew God when he was alive,” said the pastor.
After the sermon, prayers were said for peace and love within the late lawyer’s family.
The prayers for peace seemed appropriate as a mild drama was created at the funeral when the late lawyer’s wife arrived for his burial accompanied by a full scale of security personnel.
Clad in a dress made from lace and accompanied by members of her family, the lawyer’s widow declined to speak on her husband’s death.
Mr. Aturu’s siblings said their late brother was the larger family’s breadwinner, stressing that they would miss him. His London-based younger sister, Iyabo Aturu, said her late brother would forever remain in her memory.
Those who witnessed the burial included residents of Mr. Aturu’s hometown, human rights activists, lawyers, federal and state government officials, actors and other entertainers, including popular Yoruba comedian, Babatunde Omidina (aka Baba Suwe), and academics from state and federal universities.
See more of the photos from the event below.
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