Tinubu, Atiku, Peter Obi, Saraki, others mourn Akeredolu

President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sadness today over the death of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, describing him as a “fearless brother” and a dedicated public servant.

Popularly known as “Aketi” among his constituents, the 67-year-old Akeredolu passed away on Wednesday morning after an extended health struggle while undergoing medical treatment in Germany.

Tinubu, in a heartfelt statement, described Akeredolu as a “towering figure,” a “strong voice in the wilderness,” and a “mourner-in-chief” who guided his people through a period of darkness.

The president stated that Akeredolu’s “strident advocacy against every form of injustice” and his instrumental role in pushing for the establishment of local police in the Southwest region.

“Rotimi was a man who moved our nation towards equity, fairness and justice in his strident advocacy against every form of injustice in our country through the instrumentality of the law as a senior advocate, attorney general of his beloved state, as President of the Nigerian Bar Association and Governor of Ondo State,” Tinubu said.

He said Akeredolu’s dedication to public service, particularly during his six years as Governor of Ondo State, citing the “hundreds of kilometres of roads built, the many schools built, and healthcare facilities that he provided,” and praised his leadership during the Owo massacre in 2022, calling him a “true statesman and compassionate leader.”

Former Nigerian Vice President and presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar also expressed shock and sadness over the passing of Akeredolu.

In a statement issued today, Atiku hailed Akeredolu as a “quintessential gentleman who took the finesse to governance” and lauded the late governor’s two terms in office for their lack of “destructive politics.”

The former Anambra Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, also described his closeness to Akeredolu, recalling their initial meeting when Akeredolu invited him to speak at an NBA event, noting that they “remained close” and “always discussed issues about Nigeria.”

Former Senate President Abubakar Bukola Saraki described Akeredolu’s life as “remarkable, inspiring, and accomplished by all standards” in a statement.

Saraki praised Akeredolu for his “extraordinary ability to lead and serve,” emphasising his dedication to both the legal profession and public service.

“We will sorely miss His Excellency, Aketi,” He stated.

Meanwhile, the governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, said Akeredolu was a friend and brother, stating that they have been “allies through many battles, shared triumphs, and stood side by side, witnessing his relentless pursuit of justice.”

Sanwo-olu noted that Akeredolu’s passing is a profound loss, not just for Ondo State but also for the nation, adding that his impact as a beacon of hope and progress will forever echo.

“Rest in eternal peace, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. Your spirit of resilience and commitment to justice will forever inspire us,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“I pray that God grants him eternal rest and gives his immediate family, friends, associates, and the people of Ondo State the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”