Eko Hot Blog reports that condolence messages has continued to pour in following the demise of former Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.
Governor Akeredolu died in the early hours of Wednesday while receiving medical treatment in Germany after complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.
Former Presidents, Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra Governor, Peter Obi, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state, Governor Ademola Adeleke, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and host of other prominent Nigerians have expressed sadness over Akeredolu’s death.
Below are their Tributes:
“I Have Lost A Valued Friend” – Buhari
Ex-President Muhammadu Buhari mourned the death of Rotimi Akeredolu, the late governor of Ondo state.
In a statement by Garba Shehu, his media aide, Buhari described the late Ondo governor as a towering political and legal luminary.
“I have lost a valued friend. I pray that his soul finds eternal peace. My thoughts are with the countless people who are inspired by his leadership in law and politics,” he said.
“My condolences to his family,the government and people of Ondo State and to our party, the All Progressives Congress.”
“He Was A Sincere Patriot” – Goodluck Jonathan
Former President Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan condoled with the Akeredolu family as well as the Government and people of Ondo State over the passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN.
Dr. Jonathan described late Akeredolu as a sincere patriot and legal luminary who prioritised equity, justice and the collective peace of the nation above personal, political and ethnic interests.
“Mr Rotimi Akeredolu was a prominent lawyer and politician who helped shape democratic governance and promoted peace and development in Nigeria. As a lawyer, he was a sound and courageous legal luminary renowned for his advocacy for constitutionalism, democracy and good governance. As a politician, Mr Akeredolu served his state and the nation diligently as a sincere patriot who prioritised equity, justice, collective peace and unity of the nation above personal, political and ethnic interests.
“He will be missed by many across the country and remembered for his forthrightness and acts of patriotism. I offer my condolences to his immediate family, especially his wife, Mrs. Betty Akeredolu, and the government and people of Ondo State and pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
“He Was A Quintessential Gentleman” – Atiku Abubakar
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed shock and sadness over the passing of Governor Akeredolu.
In his condolence message on X (formerly Twitter), Atiku said, “It was with a rude shock and sadness that I read about the passing of the Governor of Ondo State, Chief Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Gali Umar Na’Abba.
“Governor Akeredolu was a quintessential gentleman who took the finesse to governance.
“A two-term elected governor of the Sunshine State, Akeredolu was a politician of class because he was never known for destructive politics.
“He’s Death shows The Nothingness of life” – Peter Obi
The former Governor of Anambra State described Akeredolu as prominent political figure who greatly contributed to the development of his people and the nation.
Obi prayed to God to grant the souls of the departed a peaceful repose and mourned with his family, state governments and loved ones.
The LP chieftain stated that his death have shown those who are still serving the nothingness of life why we should remain firm in good works.
“I was opportuned to be close to Gov Akeredolu as the then President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA. He invited me to speak at an NBA event and since then we remained close and always discussed issues about Nigeria.
“May God Almighty who called him home grant him eternal rest in His kingdom, and grant his immediate family and the good people of Ondo State, the fortitude to bear his loss.” He said
“South-West has lost a dogged fighter and courageous leader who worked hard for the peace, prosperity and progress of the region.” – Governor Seyi Makinde
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State expressed deep sorrow over the passing of his Ondo State counterpart, Rotimi Akeredolu.
Makinde acknowledged Akeredolu’s significant contributions to the development of Ondo State and his dedication to the progress of the entire South-West.
His message via X (formerly Twitter) handle reads: “I received with great sadness the news of the death of my brother, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu SAN, the Governor of Ondo State and Chairman, the South-West Governors’ Forum. I condole with his wife and children as well as the Government and people of Ondo State over this sad loss.
“In Aketi, South-West has lost a dogged fighter and courageous leader who worked hard for the peace, prosperity and progress of the region. I have also lost a worthy co-fighter for the South-West cause because we were both at the vanguard of the struggle, which birthed the South-West Security Network Agency codenamed Amotekun.
“Aketi’s fervent and unrelenting stance on issues that border on South-West’s regional integration and progress is a lesson for leaders. He will be sorely missed.
“Rest well, my dear brother and may the good Lord be with everyone you left behind.”
“Nigeria lost one of its finest, and I’m hugely shaken.” – Governor Ademola Adeleke
In his reaction to the demise of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke revealed that Nigeria has suffered a profound loss.
In a condolence message conveyed through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke expressed deep distress upon receiving the news of Akeredolu’s demise.
The statement read, “I am deeply touched by the demise of my brother, Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, the Governor of Ondo state. He is someone who has made great contributions to Nigeria in both the legal field and public service.
“Arakunrin Akeredolu was one of the finest minds in the country’s legal profession, and as a colleague in the Governor’s Forum, his wise counsel and constructive contributions are hard to miss. Nigeria lost one of its finest, and I’m hugely shaken.”
In light of this, the Governor extended heartfelt condolences to Acting Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, the bereaved family of the departed, and the entire Government and populace of Ondo State for the grievous loss.
He encourages them to honour and preserve the memory of Rotimi Akeredolu by perpetuating his legacy of benevolent actions and positive impacts.
“In this moment of grief and pain, I offer my deepest sympathy to everyone touched by Arakunrin Akeredolu’s demise and pray to God to grant him eternal rest while hoping for his immediate family, the government and people of Ondo State that he left behind finds comfort in the life full of accomplishments that he lived“, it added.
“His passion for his people was boundless” – Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu
Also Commiserating with his family, the people of Ondo State and Nigerians on the demise of Governor Akeredolu, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu wrote, “As a friend and brother of the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, I stand here today with a heavy heart.
“We’ve been allies through many battles, shared triumphs, and stood side by side, witnessing his relentless pursuit of justice. His passing is a profound loss not just for Ondo State but for our nation.
“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.
“I sympathise with the entire people of Ondo State, particularly Owo sons and daughters, at home and abroad.
Akeredolu’s impact as a beacon of hope and progress in Ondo State and Nigeria at large will forever echo. His strides in the realms of judiciary and governance remain a testament to his unwavering dedication to service.
“His courageous leadership during his tenure as Governor of Ondo State illuminated the path toward progress and development. His passion for his people was boundless, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of many.
“In this moment of grief, my thoughts and prayers extend to his family, his dear wife Dr. Betty Akeredolu, and all who cherished his friendship.
“May the memories of his legacy serve as a source of strength as we navigate this irreplaceable loss.
Rest in eternal peace, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. Your spirit of resilience and commitment to justice will forever inspire us.”
“A Personal Loss To The Yoruba Race.” – Ooni Of Ife
Following the demise of Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi has conveyed his condolence Message to his family, the people of Ondo state and Nigerians at large.
The Ooni characterized Akeredolu’s passing as a personal loss for the Yoruba race, emphasizing the governor’s courage and integrity.
The monarch reflected on Akeredolu’s pivotal role in spearheading the establishment of Amotekun and addressing security challenges afflicting the southwestern states.
A statement personally signed by the monarch reads: “The death of Ondo State Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Oduayo Akeredolu, SAN, is a huge loss to the country and a personal loss to the Yoruba race.
“The deceased was an epitome of honesty and courage who lived a life worthy of emulation. The Oduduwa race has just lost a pillar of honesty and courage, a man who served humanity with his expertise as a law luminary, experienced politician and a true descendant of Oduduwa.
“When we were challenged at the grassroots by invaders who masqueraded as herdsmen, Aketi worked with stakeholders across the southwest and the national level to deliver our mandate of security and prosperity. This birthed Amotekun and other initiatives through which our people are safer and more confident to embark on their lawful businesses daily.
“Akeredolu was an honest, bold, and courageous leader whose legacy will never be forgotten. If Akeredolu tells you anything, that is the way it is.
“His death is a personal loss to me because we were very close right from our days as students of Loyola College, Ibadan, till date. In fact, he did a legacy project for the school through which his name will forever be remembered.
My heartfelt condolence goes to the First Lady, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu and the entire family, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Ondo sons and daughters as well as fellow Nigerians.“
“The Yoruba race has lost a rare gem.” – Oluwo Of Iwo
The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrasheed Adewale Akanbi described Akeredolu’s death as a colossal loss to his family, Ondo State and the entire Yoruba race.
Speaking via a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Alli Ibraheem, the Oluwo said Akeredolu played a critical role in securing Yorubaland.
While noting that the late governor was a nationalist and a champion who will not be forgotten, the Osun monarch added that history will continue to be kind to him.
His statement read in part, “The demise of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State was a colossal loss, not only to his immediate family but also to the good people of Ondo and the Yoruba race by extension.
“I commiserate with his wife, immediate family, and the good people of Ondo State. The Yoruba race has lost a rare gem. He will be missed.
The role he played in securing Yorubaland cannot be forgotten. He was a nationalist. You are a champion. History will continue to be kind to you. May your souls continue to rest in peace.”
“Nigeria has lost a forthright, sincere, and unrepentant defender of the rule of law and protection of human rights.” – David Mark
Former President of the Senate, David Mark, expressed shock over the death of the Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu.
In a statement released by his media adviser, Paul Mumeh, Mark highlighted the exploits of Akeredolu in the legal profession before going into politics to contribute to the development of his home state; Ondo and Nigeria in general.
The Senator lamented that the nation has lost a forthright, sincere, and unrepentant defender of the rule of law and protection of human rights.
”As a lawyer and President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), he stood for the ordinary man and never compromised his professional standards.
“As a governor, he made policies and programmes that had a direct positive impact on the people. Akeredolu was peoples’ governor,” he said.
“Akeredolu’s Departure Leaves A Significant Void In Our Political Landscape” – APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje
The National Chairman of All Progressives Congress, Dr Abdullahi Ganduje, mourned the former Governor of Ondo State, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, describing him as a politician with exceptional leadership skills.
The APC’s national chairman, through a tribute issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, in Abuja, lamented the demise of the former National President of the Nigerian Bar Association, characterizing it as a significant loss not just for the people of Ondo but for all Nigerians.
Commending Akeredolu’s courage as a proficient lawyer and advocate for progress, Ganduje acknowledged the governor’s enduring legacy of commitment to the advancement and enhancement of Ondo State.
He said, “As we reflect on Governor Akeredolu’s remarkable contributions to public service, we remember his unflinching commitment to the principles of democracy, his determination to make a lasting impact on the lives of the people he served, and his undying love for Ondo State and its citizens.
“Throughout his tenure, Governor Akeredolu exhibited exceptional leadership skills, fostering economic growth, implementing critical infrastructure projects, and championing initiatives that enhanced the standard of living for the people of Ondo State. His dedication to ensuring peace, stability, and unity within the state will forever be remembered.
“Governor Akeredolu’s departure leaves a significant void in our political landscape. His absence will be felt by all who had the privilege of working with him, collaborating on projects, or simply experiencing his remarkable leadership firsthand.
“On behalf of members of the All Progressives Congress (APC), I extend our deepest condolences to the family, the government, the people of Ondo State, friends, and loved ones of Governor Akeredolu. We share in their grief and offer our heartfelt support during this difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with them, may they find solace in knowing that his contributions to Ondo State will be forever cherished.
“As we come to terms with this loss, let us honour Governor Akeredolu’s memory by remaining committed to the ideals and principles he held dear. Let us continue to work together, building on his firm foundation and striving for the progress and prosperity of Ondo State. Indeed, Governor Rotimi Akeredolu’s legacy will endure, and his vision for a better Ondo State will never be forgotten.“
“He was a courageous and amiable personality, brilliant lawyer and outstanding administrator” – PDP
The main opposition party, PDP described Akeredolu’s death as a national loss in a statement issued on Wednesday by its national publicity secretary, Debo Ologunagba.
The party, in the statement, said the late governor was a courageous, amiable and brilliant lawyer.
The statement read, “The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is saddened by the news of the death of the Governor of Ondo State, His Excellency Rotimi Akeredolu CON, SAN.
“Late Governor Akeredolu was a courageous and amiable personality, brilliant lawyer and outstanding administrator with deep understanding and capacity for leadership especially in his roles towards the unity, stability and development of the nation.
“His death is a huge national loss. He was an unrepentant fighter for Fairness, Equity and Justice in the affairs of the nation. He believed in true federalism, respect, defense and protection of ethnic nationalities which he advocated as prerequisite for peace and development in our nation.
“The PDP commiserates with Governor Akeredolu’s widow, Betty Akeredolu, his children and the people of Ondo State. We pray to God to grant them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, and to the faithful departed, eternal rest in His Bosom.”
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