Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has released detailed instructions about how he wants to be buried, saying the Ekiti State Government should take full responsibility for his body whenever he dies. He also insisted that his burial must take place within four weeks of his passing.
Fayose, who marked his 65th birthday on Saturday, made the remarks in a six-minute video published by City Edge TV on YouTube. In the video, he spoke calmly about death, describing it as something that everyone must eventually face.
He explained that he had already written a letter to Governor Biodun Oyebanji to formalise his wishes. “My body belongs to the Ekiti State Government,” he said, stressing that the state should take charge of every detail, no matter when he dies.
Fayose said he accepted that the state may not be able to conduct a burial within a short window, noting that the four-week period would give the government enough time to organise the ceremony. He also directed his children to follow the government’s instructions and wear their own chosen clothing for the event.
On where he wants to be buried, the former governor said he had prepared a garden at the home of his paternal grandmother and that this would be his final resting place. He added that once the burial is completed, friends and supporters should stop visiting the graveside. According to him, anyone who truly wishes to show love should do so while he is alive, not after his passing.
Alongside the video, the YouTube channel also shared footage from Fayose’s birthday thanksgiving reception, where legendary juju musician King Sunny Ade performed as the former governor danced on stage.
Tributes poured in from political figures. The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, described Fayose as “a valuable friend and brother” who never hides his position on issues. Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji also congratulated him through a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode, noting Fayose’s “remarkable contributions” and his connection to the grassroots.
