IN the words of the Ondo State Government, it was indeed a sad day in Ondo, yesterday, as Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, died exactly 190 days after he was first flown out of the state to Germany for medication. He was 67.
In Akeredolu’s stead, his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who took over in acting capacity two weeks ago, was sworn-in yesterday as substantive governor in a sombre ceremony.
He described Akeredolu’s death as a personal loss having worked with the deceased since 2012 when the governorship journey started, and promised to sustain the legacies of the late governor.
Announcing Akeredolu’s death earlier, the Ondo State Government, in a statement by the Information and Orientation Commissioner, Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, described him as an extraordinary leader, lamenting that “it was a sad day in Ondo State.”
The statement read in part: “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the tragic passing of our beloved Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, 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.
“A letter has been sent to President Bola Tinubu, to officially inform His Excellency of this devastating news. 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 South-West region and the nation.
“Akeredolu was a courageous leader and an exemplar of integrity. The weight of this loss is truly unbearable.”
Credit: Vanguard News Nigeria