Ondo Officials Absent From Burial Of NTA Staff And Family Killed By Deputy Governor’s Convoy

Family and supporters attended the funeral today of Nigerian Television Authority staffers, Mr. Alex Akinwale and his wife, Kehinde Akinwale at Orimolade Community Comprehensive High School, Sabo area of Akure in Ondo State.

NTA journalist, Mr. Alex Akinwale, 34 and his pregnant wife, Kehinde, 33 daughter and housemaid all died in a traffic accident Sunday involving the convoy of Deputy Governor of Ondo State, Alihaji Ali Olanusi.  A story broken by Saharareporters

Akinwale's 4-year old son, Paul, survived; his daughter and housemaid were buried in a separate funeral on Wednesday.  

Akinwale was returning from the funeral of his brother when the accident happened.

At a short service at the school, Mr. Akinwale, Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Journalist (NTA) Akure chapter, and his wife were remembered for their commitment and passion by friends and colleagues.

Mrs. Akinwale worked in the Marketing Department at Nigerian Television Authority in Akure.

NUJ Deputy National President, Rotimi Obamuwagun described Alex's perseverance and said the Union will miss the young star who tried to bring forth new ideas to the station, and pushed for an investigation in the Life Insurance scheme of the government.

The Ondo State chairman of NUJ, Mr. Akinfolayan Owanikin praised Alex and Kehinde Akinwale's doggedness while on earth saying members of the pen will miss the duo.

Before his death, Mr. Akinwale was the Pastor at Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Akure. The homely was given by the Zonal Pastor in charge or RCCG, Tunji Ademiluyi who said to remember there is no life after eternity.

"Pastor Alex and his wife have completed their missions on earth.  We should know that everyone will one day die."

Alex's brother, Mr. Adewale Akinwale, collapsed at the burial but revived.

Complaints were made about the low number of journalists attending to funeral to show support for their colleague.  

One journalist who requested anonymity confirmed that despite the publicity, "It's unfortunate to see the low turnout of journalists at this event. This is very bad and a slap to the profession."

No government officials attended the burial.