TRIBUTES TO HIS EXCELLENCY, ARAAKUNRIN ROTIMI AKEREDOLU – A GOVERNOR WITH CLEAR CONSCIENCE IS GONE
By: Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola
In an unbelievable twist of fate, death dealt a vital blow on the peace loving people of Ondo State, claiming the life of its Governor, His Excellency, Araakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (alias Aketi) in the early hours of Wednesday, 27th December, 2023.
It was a sudden death that broke through the length and breath of Nigeria from Germany, and a Curtin was drawn on the masses’ Governor who remained an icon of hope for the down trodden. Amongst all, a Governor with clear conscience for what is fair, just and truthful!
As much as difficult it is to accept the inevitability of death, Governor ‘Rotimi Akeredolu came into the space earth with specific mission, and like Apostle Paul, it could be said of him that he had run the race (creditably well) and a crown of gold awaits him in Heaven. His great deeds eloquently speak for him, and history will surely be kind to him.
As an extraordinary individual, Aketi was a beacon of courage, admired by people for his unwavering patriotism and selflessness; very rare traits to possess lately.
Araakunri Akeredolu traversed the world as a sincere exemplar of astute leadership, embodying the essence of a genuine progressive leader. Thus, his passing is not a colossal loss to Ondo State alone but the entire Nigeria at large.
Therefore, it is with immense sense of responsibility that one joins the community of Progressives, the astute people of Ondo State and the Nation of Nigeria in mourning the great departure of a unique voice of reasoning and conscience, a man who stood steadfastly in defence of his people, and indeed the country in the absolute interest of nation-building, even in the face of overwhelming challenges and intimidation.
While his departure brings immense emotional sorrow, we find comfort in the indelible legacies he left behind as a noble gentleman and a dedicated statesman.
In the serene embrace of fate, we find ourselves bidding adieu to a legal luminary who graced our lives with his unwavering commitment to justice, fairness and truth at all times.
At 67 years of age, Governor Akeredolu’s departure leaves a profound void in our hearts, yet his indomitable spirit and legacy echo louder than the sombre whispers of this moment.
Governor Akeredolu wasn’t just a leader; he was the embodiment of resilience, a compass guiding us through turbulent tides, and a guardian of unwavering principles. His unwavering dedication to the prosperity of Ondo State and the larger tapestry of Nigeria carved an enduring legacy, etched in the annals of our collective memory.
Araakunri, as he was affectionately known, trod the path of leadership with unmatched sincerity, weaving dreams of progress and prosperity for his people. His vision transcended boundaries, reaching the farthest corners, touching lives, and sowing seeds of hope that will perennially blossom.
In moments of uncertainty, his voice resonated as a beacon of reason, a steadying force amid chaos. His footsteps imprinted not just on the soil of Ondo State but on the hearts of generations yet to come, teaching us the essence of selflessness and service.
Today, as we mourn his departure, we take solace in the timeless legacy he leaves behind. His legacy isn’t just a testament to his tenure; it’s a living testament to the values he embodied, the lives he touched, and the dreams he nurtured.
May his legacy stand tall as a lighthouse, guiding future leaders toward compassion, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the people they serve.
Our prayers and thoughts extend to his family, seeking solace in the memories of a man who became a beacon of hope for an entire state and nation.
Rest in eternal peace, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, for your legacy is engraved in the very fabric of our existence, and your impact shall endure for eternity.
May God in His eternal mercy provide solace to his immediate family during this challenging time.
ADIEU THE GOVERNOR OF THE MASSES, RULED BY CONSCIENCE