The recent passing of Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu has plunged the state and the nation into mourning.
Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, affectionately known as “Aketi,” served as the governor of Ondo State from February 24, 2017 until his untimely demise on December 27, 2023.
As a distinguished statesman, legal luminary, and progressive politician, Governor Akeredolu leaves behind a legacy of exemplary leadership and service that shall be long remembered.
His demise at the age of 67, after battling cancer, marks the end of an impactful era in Ondo State’s history.
Expectedly, tribute has been pouring in from all over the country. President Bola Tinubu described Akeredolu as a “fearless brother, confidant, political soulmate,” and a tireless advocate for justice and security in Nigeria.
NGF chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq described Akeredolu as a “voice of reason” whose counsel brought succor to many.
Former President Muhammadu Buhari said, “I have lost a valued friend. I pray that his soul finds eternal peace.
My thoughts are with the countless people who are inspired by his leadership in law and politics.”
In this time of grief, we must reflect on the immense contributions of this visionary leader to the development of his state and Nigeria as a whole.
Throughout his illustrious career, Governor Akeredolu was driven by a passion for uplifting the downtrodden and a commitment to enhancing governance through progressive ideals.
His excellence as a lawyer and advocate is widely revered. As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, he spearheaded numerous reforms to strengthen the legal profession.
Even in the face of allegations against his person in 2009, he emerged unscathed as his integrity and ethics as a legal practitioner were reaffirmed.
When he ventured into politics, his formidable work ethic, sterling principles, and people-centric manifesto resonated widely. Though unsuccessful in his first attempt in 2012 under the Action Congress of Nigeria, he persisted in his vision. In 2016, as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, he attained a hard-won victory at the polls.
As Governor, Akeredolu made remarkable strides in infrastructure development, industrialisation, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.
His first term saw the establishment of institutions like the Ondo State Development and Investment Promotion Agency to boost FDI inflows. His re-election in 2020 affirmed his acceptance as a leader with a progressive vision.
Even while undergoing cancer treatment, his commitment to duty was unassailable. He provided pragmatic leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic, initiating policies to protect lives and livelihoods. Despite his medical challenges, he continued working till the very end to ensure stability in Ondo State.
Apart from his tangible achievements, Governor Akeredolu’s legacy lies in his compassion. His swift condemnation of the Owo church attack in 2022 revealed his unwavering support for communal harmony.
Many Nigerians, especially in the South West, will not forget his fight against terrorism in the region. He championed the formation of Amotekun to fight insecurity in the region.
Undoubtedly, Amotekun security has significantly reduced the killings, kidnapping and banditry in the South West.
The late Ondo governor was a bridge-builder who constantly sought unity and peaceful coexistence.
Indeed, Akeredolu’s life and work embodied the essence of progressive leadership – cherishing democratic ideals, championing equity, pursuing pragmatic development, and uplifting the downtrodden.
His courageous battle with cancer is also a reminder of the urgent need to expand affordable and quality healthcare for all Nigerians.
Governor Akeredolu’s struggle brings to the fore the need for greater public investment in cancer treatment facilities and research. We must honor his memory by increasing access to cancer centers across Nigeria.
On December 12, 2023, anticipating another period of medical leave, Akeredolu took the prudent step of appointing Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa as acting governor. Fifteen days later, on December 27, 2023, Akeredolu breathed his last.
As we mourn the eminent Akeredolu, let us celebrate his life by building on his efforts to entrench good governance, stimulate progress, and empower our citizens.
His selfless service and perseverance in the face of adversity will remain a shining example for leaders across the land.
Though the curtain has fallen on Akeredolu’s illustrious story, the people of Ondo State will long reap the fruits of his vision.
His legacy of people-centric and result-oriented leadership shall endure in the hearts and lives of the millions he impacted. Nigeria owes immense gratitude to this legal giant and political colossus.
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