Governor Akeredolu was a Pan-Yoruba Patriot, Legacy Remains Evergreen – Afenifere
The Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG), has described the former Ondo State Governor, ARAKUNRIN OLUWAROTIMI ODUNAYO AKEREDOLU as an unbending Pan-Yoruba Patriot, whose loyalty to a course will remain evergreen in the annals of history.
The socio-cultural and political group said Akeredolu’s demise was an irreparable and painful loss to Nigeria, especially the Yoruba race, considering the enormous roles he played to rescue the region from oppression and external aggression.
ARG, Ekiti State chapter said these in its condolence message released on Tuesday by its State Publicity Secretary, Hon, Prince (AMB) Michael Ogungbemi fcpa on the death of the former Ondo State Governor .
Akeredolu who died on December 26, 2023 during a protracted battle with prostate cancer will be interred in his Owo countryhome on February 23, 2024.
Condoling with the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and the entire Southwest region, Afenifere said Akeredolu’s loyalty to the advancement of the region’s economic, political and security architectures portrayed him as one leader with strong zeal and passion to defend his people.
Of particular reference, the socio-cultural and political body saluted the late Governor for being boisterous against those posing as oppressors and aggressors when the region became a killing field for marauders.
Prince Ogungbemi showered encomiums and eulogies on Akeredolu over his historic role in the consummation of Amotekun Corps to salvage the southwest region in the course of the epic battle against kidnappers and killers, who held the zone by the jugular.
“When others became rattled and silent despite open rage being displayed by oppressors and aggressors when the southwest was under the siege of kidnappers and killers, the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu acted valiantly and raised his voice against unnecessary carnage against his people.
“He stood uncompromisingly for the region. Even in his service to Ondo State, he displayed a sense of responsibility and responsiveness. He gave his best to his people, which earned him the chairmanship of both the Southern Governors’ forum and Southwest Governors’ forum.
“Akeredolu was respected and honoured while alive and I know he will remain great even in death for his service to humanity.
“As a Lawyer, he dedicated his entire time, intellect and resources defending the poor masses. He also fought for the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria. So, no honour could be greater than all these.
“We condole with his immediate family, especially his widow, Mrs Betty Akeredolu, children and the entire Owo Kingdom on the demise of this great Nigerian.
“May God forgive him of all his sins and grant him eternal rest”, the statement stated.