- He moved Nigeria towards justice, equity – President
- Nigeria loses an exceptional statesman – Governors’ Forum
- Akeredolu displayed courage when it mattered most – PDP
- Ondo youths have lost a great leader, true friend – NYCN
By Banji Ayoola
President Bola Tinubu has regretted the passage early this morning of Ondo State Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, who he described in glowing terms as a man who moved Nigeria towards equity, fairness and justice in his strident advocacy against every form of injustice.
Also, he described the former governor as a towering figure who worked commendably through the instrumentality of the law variously as a senior advocate, attorney general of his state, President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, and Governor of Ondo State.
The President said in a condolence message which he signed: “It is a difficult task to have to pen a tribute and sing a dirge for a departing soul. It is a more difficult job in our African culture when one is compelled to do so for a younger person. Here I am with the difficult job of singing a dirge for Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, my beloved brother, confidant, political soulmate and governor of Ondo State.
“I cannot fairly capture in words Rotimi’s towering figure and his human essence. In a challenging moment of our statehood when marauding agents of darkness spread their tentacles across our country, Rotimi was a strong voice in wilderness calling us to rethink our security architecture so we can have a more secure nation. His unrelenting advocacy led to the birth of the local police in the South West.
“Rotimi was a man of ideas and action. While he was with us, he taught us the power of action and service. In Ondo State where he had the honour to serve as the Governor in the last 6 years, he served his people with absolute loyalty, dedication and forthrightness.
“His footprints dot the entire landscape in the hundreds of kilometres of roads he built, the many school he built and healthcare facilities that he provided. During the dark hours when marauding agents of darkness visited the state and killed defenceless citizens where 40 worshippers of the Catholic Church of Owo were killed on June 5, 2022, Rotimi’s leadership qualities as a true statesman and compassionate leader radiated brightly to the world.
“He was a mourner-in-chief who guided his people through an agonising period. Today, I MOURN a fighter and fearless defender of truth and the masses.
“My personal journey with Rotimi started as joint members of the progressive family. We fought many battles together to restore progressive governance in the South West, Edo State and Nigeria as a whole. During this uncertain period, Rotimi was resolute and unflinching.
“He showed uncommon courage as member of our legal team in our battles to reclaim our stolen mandates in Ekiti, Ondo, Edo and Osun States. A gallant lawyer and one of the finest of the legal profession. I beckoned on him to contest for the governorship position of Ondo State in 2012.
“Even though he didn’t make it in first attempt his enthusiasm and determination to serve his people never diminished. He eventually made it to the Alagbaka Government House in his second attempt in the 2016 election, Since he was sworn-in in February 2017, he had served the people with devotion.
“Rotimi has played his role well and left us untimely. We will never see his likes again. Let me tell the people of Ondo State that I am grieving with you. We will honour Rotimi’s memory and make sure his legacy of service is never forgotten.
“In my grief and sadness, I have telephoned his wife, Betty, and Acting Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to commiserate with them and urge them to take heart over this national tragedy.
“Governor Akeredolu was not just a friend, ally and associate, he was a brother and soulmate.
“His death is a blow to our governing APC and the progressive family as we are diminished by it.
“I hope that his successor Aiyedatiwa will hold steadfast to the vision of governance left by this towering political leader.”
In their condolence message, the 36 governors who wrote under the umbrella of the Nigerian Governors Forum through their chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, described Akeredolu as an exceptional statesman who made indelible marks in public service.
The governors said in the statement issued on AbdulRazaq’s behalf by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, said: “My heartfelt condolences go to the Progressives Governors’ Forum, the government and people of Ondo State, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), as well as the immediate family of my dear brother and colleague His Excellency Olurotimi Akeredolu SAN.
“A frontline lawyer and conscientious politician of a progressive bent, His Excellency would be remembered for his courage, patriotism, and immeasurable contributions to the constitutional and sociopolitical development of Nigeria.
“As painful as his exit is to all of us, we take solace in his fine legacies as a gentleman and statesman. We ask God to repose his soul and look after his family.”
Also, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Gboyega Akosile, describing Akeredolu’s death as a colossal loss to the country and Ondo State in particular.
He said the departed would be greatly missed for his positive impact in Ondo State, South-West and Nigeria as a whole.
Allso, he commiserated with the Ondo State Acting Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Akeredolu’s widow, Betty, and the entire family and friends of the deceased.
The Governor also sympathised with the entire people of Ondo State, especially the indigenes of Owo, on the demise of their illustrious son, praying that God would grant them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
Sanwo-Olu, in the statement, described Akeredolu’s death as a colossal loss to the country, adding that, while alive, the he made positive contributions to the growth and development of Ondo State and Nigeria, especially in the judiciary and governance.
His words: “On behalf of the Government and people of Lagos State, I want to express my heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and associates of the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu over the death of the Ondo State Governor.
“I also commiserate with all my brother governors over the death of one of us. I sympathise with the entire people of Ondo State, particularly Owo sons and daughters at home and abroad.
“The death of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu is a colossal loss to the country, particularly the people of Ondo State. He made lots of impactful contributions during his lifetime to the growth and development of Nigeria, first as a lawyer and later as a two-term governor.
“Arakunrin Akeredolu was a courageous leader. He served the people of Ondo State passionately during his tenure as Governor of the State.
“I pray that God will grant Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu eternal rest and give his immediate family, friends, associates, and the people of Ondo State the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.”
Also, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in a condolence message signed by its Director of Media and Publicity in Ondo State, Mr Leye Igbabo, titled “Ondo State PDP Mourns The Exit Of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN”, said:
“The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Ondo State Chapter receives with deep sense of loss, the news of the death of the Executive Governor of Ondo State, Mr Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON which sad event occurred in the early hours of today, 27th December, 2023.
“While it is a known fact that, any man born of a woman is of few days, the untimely departure of the governor is nonetheless, saddening and surely, leaves a sour taste in the mouth.
“Our party commiserates with the people of Ondo State on the demise of a Governor who displayed courage when it mattered most. Ondo State has lost a man who did not pretend about his views on issues.
“We will no doubt, sorely miss the Governor. We pray for the repose of his soul and God’s strength for the entire people of Ondo State to bear this unfortunate incident.
Also, the Nigerian Youth Council, NYCN, in its statement signed by its chairman in Ondo State, Pathfinder Ade Ogunmolawa said:
“Dear Members of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Ondo State Chapter,
“It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we inform you of the passing of Ondo State Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN CON. Today, we mourn the loss of a great leader, a visionary, and a true friend to the youth of Ondo State.
“Governor Akeredolu was not only a dedicated public servant but also a mentor to many young individuals, guiding us towards a better future. His commitment to the development and empowerment of the youth was evident in his numerous initiatives and policies that aimed at creating opportunities for us to thrive.
“We join the entire state in grieving his demise, recognizing the immense impact he had on the lives of countless people, especially the youth. His visionary leadership, unwavering integrity, and commitment to service will forever be remembered and cherished.
“During this difficult time, let us come together to support one another and stand as a united front. May God, in His infinite mercy, grant us all the fortitude to bear this loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with Governor Akeredolu’s family, friends, and colleagues as they navigate through this profound sorrow.
“As we mourn and grieve, let us also remember the legacy that Governor Akeredolu leaves behind. It is now our responsibility, as young leaders, to uphold his ideals and continue the work he started. Let us carry forward his vision, passion, and dedication to creating a better future for the youth of Ondo State.
“May Governor Akeredolu’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory inspire us to strive for excellence in everything we do.
“With deepest condolences”
On the other hand, Ogunmolawa congratulated the new Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, saying: “We extend our heartfelt condolences on the untimely loss of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu SAN CON.
“It is indeed a tragic moment for the people of Ondo State.
“As you step into the shoes of leadership, we pray that God grants you the strength and fortitude to bear this heavy burden. It is at times like these that the true strength of a leader is tested, and we have faith in your capabilities to navigate through this challenging time.
“In the wake of this unfortunate event, we urge everyone to come together and rally around the new government. It is crucial that we all unite, set aside our differences, and extend our full support to ensure the smooth functioning of the government.
“We firmly believe that the new government will champion the interests of the people, particularly the youth of Ondo State. We have high hopes that your administration will prioritize the welfare and development of the younger generation, empowering them with opportunities and creating a conducive environment for growth.
“Once again, please accept our deepest condolences, and may God guide and bless you as you assume this enormous responsibility.”
While confirming Akeredolu’s death earlier in a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, the Ondo State Government said that he died in Germany on Wednesday after battling prostate cancer.
The statement titled ‘ It Is a sad day in Ondo State’ said: “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the passing of our beloved Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
“Mr. Governor peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023. This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts.
“Governor Akeredolu answered the eternal call while receiving medical treatment in Germany. He succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.”
It said that a letter had been sent to President Bola Tinubu to officially inform him of the governor’s death, adding:
“The family and the Ondo State Government appreciate Mr. President for his support for Governor Akeredolu during his illness. The family and the state government will release further details regarding the funeral arrangements.
“Governor Akeredolu was an extraordinary leader whose unwavering dedication to the state and its people was both commendable and unparalleled. He not only served as the Governor of Ondo State but also emerged as a prominent advocate for the entire Southwest region and the nation. Governor Akeredolu was a courageous leader and an exemplar of integrity. The weight of this loss is truly unbearable.
“However, we find solace in the knowledge that Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu lived a purposeful life, devoted to the service of God Almighty.”
It was gathered that Akeredolu died at about 2 a.m. on Wednesday at a German hospital where he was receiving treatment.
Akeredolu went on his first medical leave to treat what was then an undisclosed ailment in June and returned in September. When he returned, he resumed in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, a situation that drew public outrage.
In December, he commenced another medical leave that was said to be a follow-up to his initial medical treatment. This time, he wrote the state assembly, formally transferring power to the Deputy Governor in acting capacity in line with the dictates of the Constitution.
His long absence created political manoeuvring that pitched Aiyedatiwa against his principal, Akeredolu. The situation snowballed into the state assembly attempting to launch an impeachment process against the deputy governor, leading to a legal battle between both parties.
The chaos recently subsided when President Bola Tinubu stepped in and asked that the status quo be maintained with certain conditions.
Some of the conditions include that Aiyedatiwa would not be declared acting governor, in an apparent move to save Akeredolu’s seat.
Also the deputy governor was also reportedly directed to submit an undated letter of resignation to President Tinubu, to guarantee that he would not disrupt the political configuration in the state while he runs the government until the expected full recovery of his principal, Akeredolu.
Eventually, Akeredolu’s death on Wednesday paved the way for Aiyedatiwa to be sworn in as the substantive governor of the state.
