Leading figures of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George, former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Chief Koforola Akerele-Bucknor, party leaders, friends and associates on Monday gathered in Lagos to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the death of former Lagos PDP governorship candidate, Engr. Funsho Williams.
Williams, who flew the PDP flag in the 2003 Lagos governorship election, was brutally murdered on July 27, 2006, by yet-to-be-identified assailants.
The remembrance service was held at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church, Yaba, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, George described the late politician as an epitome of civility, humility and service, saying the pain of his death remains fresh even after two decades.
“Twenty years is a long time, but it still feels like yesterday. The pain of his loss is still with us. I remember receiving a call from the President around 7 a.m. informing me that Funsho had been murdered. We immediately flew to Lagos, and I went straight to his house. Seeing him lying lifeless is a sight I can never forget,” he said.
George recalled that Williams was his junior at the university and praised him as a gentle, compassionate and selfless leader.
“He was an epitome of civility, a true icon, a humanist and a gentleman. We lost a gem. Twenty years later, I want to appeal to Nigerians to embrace peace. Has the nation truly found peace? Who is happy today? Those in government should always work for the good of the country. Though it is a painful memory, we thank God for his life. I pray that God guides our affairs and reassure Nigerians that our great party will endure.”
Also speaking, politician Dr. Funso Doherty described the late Williams as a leader whose legacy continues to inspire many.
“Late Engr. Funsho Williams left behind a shining legacy across Lagos and Nigeria. He was a man many of us admired and sought to emulate because of his character and commitment to public service,” he said.
Lagos State PDP Chairman, Dr. Amos Fawole, described Williams as a distinguished gentleman, accomplished engineer and a true Omoluabi whose vision for a prosperous Lagos could not be extinguished by violence.
According to Fawole, Williams believed governance was a sacred responsibility aimed at improving the lives of the people, particularly the less privileged.
“He was a compassionate leader whose humility, generosity and selfless service transformed countless lives. His vision for a greater Lagos was built on competence, integrity, inclusiveness and genuine love for humanity,” he said.
Fawole urged Lagosians and Nigerians to sustain the ideals that defined Williams’ life, including integrity, compassion, sacrifice, excellence and an unwavering commitment to the common good.
In his homily, the officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Dominic Mbom, urged the congregation to live exemplary lives rooted in faith and righteousness.
“Every great person has a humble beginning. It is by living according to God’s principles that one grows into greatness,” he said.