Posthumous Birthday: Gov Aiyedatiwa celebrates, vows to sustain Akeredolu’s legacy

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, on Tuesday paid tribute to his late predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu, on his 70th posthumous birthday, describing him as a leader, mentor and a courageous statesman whose legacy continues to shape the state.

Aiyedatiwa also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building on the foundation laid by the late governor and sustaining his vision for a safer, stronger and more prosperous Ondo State.

The governor stated this in a message he personally signed on Tuesday to commemorate Akeredolu’s posthumous birthday anniversary.

Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, served as governor of Ondo State from February 2017 until his death on December 27, 2023, after a prolonged illness.

He was widely recognised for his advocacy for true federalism, his role in the establishment of the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, and his push for infrastructure development and improved security in the state.

Aiyedatiwa served as deputy governor under Akeredolu before succeeding him in office following his death.

Paying his tribute, Aiyedatiwa said the late governor’s courage, conviction and dedication to public service remained a source of inspiration.

“Today, I join the Akeredolu family, the people of Ondo State, and countless admirers across Nigeria in celebrating the life and legacy of my leader, mentor, and immediate predecessor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, on what would have been his 70th birthday.

“Though he is no longer with us, the ideals he lived for, his courage, conviction, and unwavering commitment to the progress of Ondo State, continue to inspire us.

“He was a man who led with uncommon boldness, defended justice without compromise, and dedicated himself to the service of our dear state and nation,” he stated.

Reflecting on his relationship with the late governor, Aiyedatiwa expressed appreciation for the opportunity to have worked closely with him.

“I remain profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have served alongside him,” he said.

“His confidence in me, his guidance, and the responsibilities he entrusted to me remain enduring lessons that continue to shape my approach to leadership and public service.”

The governor pledged to preserve Akeredolu’s vision for the state, saying, “As we honour his memory today, I reaffirm my commitment to building on the foundation he laid and to sustaining the vision of a safer, stronger, and more prosperous Ondo State for the benefit of all our people.”

He also prayed for the repose of the late governor’s soul and comfort for his family.

“On this 70th posthumous birthday anniversary, I pray that Almighty God continues to grant him eternal rest and comfort his family and all who continue to cherish his memory.

“Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, your legacy lives on,” Aiyedatiwa concluded.

𝕤𝕖𝕖 𝕞𝕠𝕣𝕖/𝕨𝕒𝕥𝕔𝕙 𝕥𝕙𝕖 𝕧𝕚𝕕𝕖𝕠 𝕙𝕖𝕣𝕖