The House of Representatives expresses deep sadness over the demise of the Ondo State Governor and Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum, H.E. Arakunrin Rotimi Odunayo Akeredolu (SAN) at age 67.
Following a prolonged health battle; even in service to his people, the sad event of Governor Akeredolu’s demise this Wednesday, is an unforgettable loss to the Ondo State which he has led in the last seven years, and the country at large.
Governor Akeredolu’s impact on the political landscape as an accomplished lawyer who rose to become President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and later as Governor of Ondo State are unique footprints in Nigerian governance that will be remembered by many generations.
Amongst many other qualities, he was an activist-lawyer, brilliant leader, courageous voice and champion of federalism as leader of the Southern Governors Forum. He will thus be fondly remembered for his principled stance on national issues and uncommon commitment to regional policing.
The passionate and uncompromising contributions of the late Senior Advocate of Nigeria to the establishment of the Western Nigeria Security Network (WNSN) codenamed ‘Amotekun’ in 2020 will also continue to be a reference point in our political history.
We express our heartfelt condolences to his family through H.E. Chief Mrs. Betty Akeredolu; Acting Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and the people of Ondo State, as well as the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF), Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq.
Sleep well, Aketi. Our thoughts are with you all and may you be strengthened in this difficult time and beyond.
*Rep. Akin Rotimi Jr.*
House Spokesman /
Chairman, House Committee on Media & Public Affairs
December 27, 2023
