Former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose has laid out precise directives for how he wants to be buried, insisting that his remains must be interred within four weeks of his death and that no one should visit his resting place afterward.
In a six-minute video shared on YouTube by City Edge TV on Saturday, Fayose — who turned 65 today — said he has formally notified Governor Biodun Oyebanji of his wishes. According to him, the Ekiti State Government should take full responsibility for his body and all burial arrangements whenever he passes.
“Death is inevitable,” he said. “My body belongs to the Ekiti State Government… I’m delivering a letter to the governor. Whether in 15, 20, or 30 years, the state government must take over my body, and I must be buried within four weeks.”
Fayose explained that the four-week window was to give the government enough time to prepare, adding that his children must follow every directive issued by the authorities at that time and should not wear uniforms or special outfits for his burial.
Speaking about his preferred burial site, he revealed that he has already prepared a garden at his paternal grandmother’s home and wants to be laid to rest there. After his burial, he said, the site should be closed off: “Nobody must come there again. Allow me to go. If you want to show me love or care, do so now.”
City Edge TV also released a separate 20-minute video showing legendary juju musician King Sunny Ade performing for Fayose during his birthday thanksgiving celebration, with the former governor dancing joyfully on stage.
The milestone drew tributes from political leaders across the country.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike described Fayose as “a valuable friend and brother” who is transparent about his convictions. “Ayodele, my younger brother, may you reach the age of your elder brother in good health… may your days be fruitful with immeasurable blessings,” he said.
Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji also celebrated the former governor in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Yinka Oyebode. Oyebanji praised Fayose for his “remarkable contributions” to Ekiti’s development, calling him “a leader who connects deeply with the people, a respected grassroots mobiliser, and a statesman committed to a more prosperous state and nation.”