By Deborah Nnamdi
What was meant to be a day of celebration turned tragic over the weekend when Lagos hotelier Otunba Kunle Akinyele suddenly collapsed and died during the 60th birthday thanksgiving service of his wife, Deaconess Catherine Adejoke Akinyele.
The thanksgiving ceremony was held at Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Iyanu, Odemuyiwa District Headquarters, in the Egbeda area of Lagos State.
According to a video circulating online, Akinyele appeared to signal for help—possibly asking for water or an inhaler—before collapsing. He was visibly distressed and gesturing moments before he slumped.
An invitation shared ahead of the event indicated that guests were expected to head to the reception at Noble Castle Events Centre in Igando following the church service. Event vendors and planners had reportedly arrived as early as 10 a.m. to prepare for the celebration, which was slated to start by 2 p.m.
Sadly, the day took a heartbreaking turn when word spread that Akinyele had collapsed while giving his testimony during the service. Attempts to revive him were unsuccessful.
As of the time of this report, the exact cause of his death has not been officially confirmed by authorities.
