Sad News: Ondo Mourns the Loss of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu
Sad News: Ondo Mourns the Loss of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu
In a heartbreaking development, Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has passed away at the age of 67. The governor, renowned for his legal prowess and political leadership, succumbed to the complications of prostate cancer and leukemia while receiving treatment in Germany.
Background:
Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), secured re-election in October 2020. Unfortunately, his second term was marked by health challenges, prompting him to take medical leave overseas. Despite his return in September 2023, the governor faced persistent health issues.
On December 13, Akeredolu handed over power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, before embarking on another medical leave. This marked the culmination of a prolonged battle with illness that had kept him away from his duties for months.
A Life of Distinction:
Known affectionately as “Aketi,” Akeredolu was not only a legal luminary but also a respected politician. Born on July 21, 1956, in Ese Odo, Ondo State, he pursued a distinguished career in law, earning the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 1998. Akeredolu later served as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association in 2008.
His political journey saw him clinch the Ondo governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2016 and secure a re-election in 2020. Akeredolu’s commitment to public service earned him national recognition in October 2022 when he was honored with the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by former President Muhammadu Buhari.
The governor’s legacy extends beyond politics, as he co-founded the law firm Olujinmi & Akeredolu and played a pivotal role in legal and political
spheres.
As Ondo mourns the loss of a remarkable leader, Akeredolu’s impact on the state and the nation will be remembered with reverence. May his soul rest in peace.
