Prominent members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George, former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Chief Koforola Akerele-Bucknor, alongside party faithful, friends and associates, gathered in Lagos on Monday to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the passing of former PDP governorship candidate, Engr. Funsho Williams.
Williams, who contested the 2003 Lagos State governorship election on the PDP platform, was murdered on July 27, 2006, by unknown attackers in a case that remains unsolved.
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The memorial service took place at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church in Yaba, Lagos.
Addressing attendees, George paid glowing tribute to the late politician, describing him as a symbol of humility, decency and dedicated public service. He noted that, despite the passage of two decades, the memory of Williams’ death continues to evoke deep emotions.
“Twenty years may have passed, but it still feels like yesterday. The pain has never truly gone away. I received a phone call from the President around 7 a.m. informing me that Funsho had been killed. We immediately traveled to Lagos, and I went straight to his residence. Seeing him lying there lifeless remains one of the saddest moments of my life,” George recalled.
He also reflected on their relationship, noting that Williams was his junior at the university and describing him as a calm, kind-hearted and selfless individual who was committed to serving others.
“He embodied civility and was a remarkable human being. We lost an exceptional leader. As we remember him today, I urge Nigerians to embrace peace. Has our country truly found peace? Who can honestly say they are happy with the current situation? Those entrusted with leadership must always place the nation’s interest above all else. Though we still grieve his loss, we remain grateful for the life he lived. I pray that God continues to guide Nigeria and that our great party will remain strong,” he said.
Speaking at the remembrance, politician Dr. Funso Doherty said Williams’ contributions to Lagos and Nigeria remain a source of inspiration for many people.
“Engr. Funsho Williams left an enduring legacy that continues to influence lives across Lagos and beyond. He was a man admired for his integrity, leadership qualities and unwavering commitment to public service,” Doherty stated.
Lagos State PDP Chairman, Dr. Amos Fawole, also described the late politician as an accomplished engineer, a respected gentleman and a true Omoluabi whose dream of a better Lagos could not be erased by violence.
According to Fawole, Williams viewed leadership as a sacred duty focused on improving the welfare of citizens, especially the vulnerable.
“He was compassionate, humble and generous, dedicating his life to uplifting others. His vision for Lagos was founded on competence, integrity, inclusiveness and genuine concern for humanity,” he said.
Fawole encouraged Lagos residents and Nigerians at large to uphold the principles that defined Williams’ life, including honesty, compassion, sacrifice, excellence and an unwavering commitment to serving the public.
In his sermon, the officiating priest, Rev. Fr. Dominic Mbom, urged worshippers to live lives guided by faith, righteousness and humility.
“Every great individual begins somewhere. True greatness comes from living according to God’s teachings and remaining faithful to His principles,” the cleric said.
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