By Our Reporter 

It was a weekend of solemn tributes, military honours and heartfelt farewells as eminent Nigerians gathered to pay their last respects to Navy Captain Caleb Omoniyi Olubolade (rtd), former Military Administrator (MILAD) of Bayelsa State and ex-Minister in three federal ministries — Special Duties, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Police Affairs.

Olubolade, who hailed from Ipoti-Ekiti in Ekiti State, died on May 11, 2024, just months after celebrating his 70th birthday in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

A distinguished naval officer, politician, and opinion leader, his burial rites drew a high-powered crowd from across the country.

Two Days of Honour

The final journey began with a Service of Songs on 8 August and culminated in a Burial Service the following day at St. John Military Protestant Church, Bonny Cantonment, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Thousands were in attendance, with the church’s vicar, Lt. (Rev. Canon) E.A. Dodo, leading other clerics in officiating both services.

From the solemn hymns to the emotional eulogies, the ceremonies reflected Olubolade’s life of service and humility. His remains were laid to rest at Ikoyi Gardens and Vaults after a full military parade, coordinated by Rear Admiral Ayo Olugbode, his former Aide-de-Camp during his tenure as Bayelsa MILAD.

The reception for guests was held at the Admiralty Conference Centre, Naval Dockyard, Victoria Island.

Political and Military Dignitaries in Attendance

The funeral attracted Governors Duoye Diri of Bayelsa and Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti; former First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan; former Ekiti Governor, Niyi Adebayo; PDP stalwart, Chief Olabode George; Senator Ben Murray-Bruce; academic and politician Prof. Steve Azaiki; traditional rulers; senior military officers, serving and retired; as well as leading media executives.

Rear Admiral Olugbode led the state/military burial rites, while retired Navy Captain Segun Noibi coordinated the sequence of events at the church, vault, and reception.

‘What Will You Be Remembered For?’

In his sermon, Lt. Rev. Dodo challenged mourners to live impactful lives, noting that Governor Diri had publicly recalled how Olubolade, during his brief military administration, built the only sports centre in Bayelsa State.

Governor Diri described the occasion as a celebration of a “worthy son”, noting that Olubolade held “dual citizenship” in Ekiti and Bayelsa by virtue of his service and relationship with the people.

He revealed that Olubolade once defused a potentially deadly situation without spilling blood, describing him as “a man of honour” who lived with humility and cultural pride.

As a lasting tribute, Diri announced that Bayelsa’s Civil Service Estate would henceforth bear Olubolade’s name.

Governor Oyebanji of Ekiti praised the glowing tributes as evidence of a life well lived, assuring the widow, Mrs Mopelola Olubolade, and the family of the government’s continued support.

A National Figure Remembered

Representing former President Goodluck Jonathan, Dame Patience Jonathan lauded Olubolade’s legacy, recalling his significant contributions as minister under her husband’s administration. She praised Governor Diri’s organisation of a state burial and reassured the widow that Bayelsans would “stand by you”.

She urged all present to reflect on the inevitability of death, remarking: “Our beloved brother left when the ovation was loudest.”

Family’s Final Words

Speaking on behalf of the family, one of  Olubolade’s grandson, Washington Akinadewo, expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and the large turnout, saying the tributes were “enough comfort” for their grief.

The day concluded with a long military convoy, pallbearers in ceremonial uniforms, and the solemn notes of a final parade, marking the end of the earthly journey of a man remembered for service, discipline, and integrity.