Odinkalu, Rhodes-Vivour remember Akeredolu for his courage
By Ishaya Ibrahim
Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu is being remembered for his courageous stance on national issues.
Unlike many of his colleagues, Akeredolu, who breathed his last on Wednesday, December 27, 2023 at the age of 67, was known for always speaking up and taking action when the situation demanded.
For instance, at the peak of attacks by Fulani bandits against communities in the South West, Akeredolu did not only condemn the attacks, but spearheaded the formation of the South West Security Network, which was codenamed Amotekun (tiger) to repel the ‘invaders.’
Akeredolu also followed up the formation of Amotekun by ordering herdsmen to vacate the forests of Ondo State within seven days. The move was against the stance of the then President Muhammadu Buhari who wanted a return of what he claimed were grazing routes.
READ ALSO: Ondo Gov Rotimi Akeredolu dies at 67
In reaction to Akeredolu’s passing, the Labour Party governorship candidate in the 2023 election in Lagos State, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, said: “The passing of H.E Akeredolu is extremely saddening. When people across his state were being massacred, he did not ask ‘where are the cows, nor did he play politics with the safety of his people. He championed the formation of Amotekun, and today, the people of the region are grateful for his courage. I will remember him for his courage, for standing up for his people and for providing leadership when it mattered the most. May his soul rest in perfect peace.”
Former chairman of National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Professor Chidi Odinkalu, also said: “Boss, brother, in-law, friend. #ThankYouAketi for a fruitful earthly tour of duty & for extraordinary gifts of courage. May the Heavens receive you with the generosity & kindness you showered on those of us who came in contact with you.”
Akeredolu died after battling prostate cancer and leukemia, two conditions that had kept him unable to move for several months.
Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), and former president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), won his re-election as the state governor in October 2020 and was sworn in for a second term in office in February 2021.
The governor’s second term, which started in January 2023, was plagued with difficulties ever since he went on medical leave overseas in June.
After spending months abroad, the 67-year-old politician came back to Nigeria in September and settled in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
On Wednesday, December 13, Akeredolu proceeded on another medical leave. He wrote a notice formally transferring power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Aiyedatiwa later assumed the responsibilities of the governor in full acting capacity.