Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has paid glowing tribute to his late predecessor, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, on what would have marked his 70th birthday.
He described the former governor as a courageous leader, trusted mentor and committed public servant whose impact continues to resonate across the state.
The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to sustain Akeredolu’s developmental agenda, saying his government remains committed to advancing the vision of a safer, stronger and more prosperous Ondo State.
Aiyedatiwa made the remarks in a goodwill message issued on Tuesday to commemorate the late former governor’s posthumous birthday anniversary.
Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), governed Ondo State from February 2017 until his death on December 27, 2023, following a prolonged illness.
During his tenure, he gained national recognition for championing true federalism, spearheading the establishment of the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, and driving infrastructure expansion and security reforms across the state.
Reflecting on Akeredolu’s life and service, Aiyedatiwa said the late governor’s courage, integrity and unwavering dedication to the welfare of the people remain enduring examples of selfless leadership.
“Today, I join the Akeredolu family, the people of Ondo State and countless admirers across Nigeria in celebrating the life and enduring legacy of my leader, mentor and immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, on what would have been his 70th birthday,” the governor said.
“Although he is no longer with us, the values he stood for, his courage, conviction and steadfast commitment to the development of Ondo State continue to inspire us. He led with remarkable boldness, upheld justice without compromise and devoted himself wholeheartedly to the service of our state and the nation.”
Aiyedatiwa, who served as deputy governor under Akeredolu before succeeding him after his death, also recalled the privilege of working closely with the late governor, saying the experience had profoundly influenced his leadership.
He expressed gratitude for the confidence Akeredolu reposed in him throughout their time in office.
“I remain deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside him. His trust, guidance and the responsibilities he entrusted to me have left lasting lessons that continue to shape my approach to governance and public service,” he stated.
The governor reiterated that his administration would continue to build on the foundation laid by Akeredolu to ensure sustained development across Ondo State.
“As we honour his memory today, I reaffirm my commitment to preserving the legacy he left behind by building on the solid foundation he established and pursuing the vision of a safer, stronger and more prosperous Ondo State for the benefit of all our people,” he added.
Aiyedatiwa also offered prayers for the peaceful repose of the former governor’s soul and asked God to grant strength and comfort to his family and all those who continue to cherish his memory.
