Ondo State Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has paid glowing tribute to the late former Governor of the state, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, describing him as a true statesman, visionary leader and a foremost champion of progressive governance.
In a tribute marking the second anniversary of Akeredolu’s passing, Aiyedatiwa said the former governor’s death was a painful loss to Ondo State and the nation, noting, however, that his legacy continues to inspire, motivate and challenge leaders and the people.
The governor recalled Akeredolu’s strong advocacy for state policing, which drove his initiative to mobilise South-West governors to establish the South-West Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, to enhance security across Yorubaland and particularly in Ondo State.
Quoting the late governor, Aiyedatiwa recalled Akeredolu’s firm declaration: “I will not play politics with the lives of my people.”
He said the bold intervention redefined Nigeria’s subnational security architecture, adding that the foresight has since gained national acceptance, with recent Senate resolutions aligning with the President’s reform agenda to decentralise policing and strengthen intelligence-led security, paving the way for constitutional and legislative backing.
The governor added that Akeredolu expressed similar confidence in his capacity at several State Executive Council meetings, stressing that the statements were not borne out of contemplation of his own passing, but reflected a leader’s intentional investment in the next generation and belief in orderly, constitutional succession.
“As history has since borne witness, Arakunrin’s faith, trust and deliberate grooming shaped part of my public life and calling,” Aiyedatiwa said, noting that he remains deeply conscious of being one of the legacies of Akeredolu’s political leadership, prepared through mentorship, tested through responsibility and guided by the values he exemplified.
He said the government and people of Ondo State are remembering and honouring Akeredolu on the second anniversary of his passing, celebrating his passion for development, enduring impacts and advocacy for justice, equity and unity.
Aiyedatiwa reaffirmed the commitment of the state to uphold Akeredolu’s legacies and renewed the pledge to fully support the Foundation established by the Akeredolu family to immortalise the great son of Owo land.
Source: The Hope