Ondo state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Wednesday received the remains of the late Ondo state Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, at the Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, Akure on behalf of the people of the state.
This is just as Governor Aiyedatiwa joined the state High Court, Akure, in a special valedictory court session in honour of Akeredolu.
The late governor died on Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at the age of 67 after a prolonged illness and will be buried on Friday February 23, in his home town of Owo.
While receiving the remains of the late governor, Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the Ondo state, saying “Akeredolu’s tireless dedication to the people of Ondo State resonates deeply within each of us.”
At the court session, Aiyedatiwa expressed heartfelt gratitude to the state judiciary for organizing the special valedictory court session in honour of his late principal.
His words: “I acknowledge the profound impact of Governor Akeredolu’s lifelong dedication to the legal profession, this honour done by the judiciary to our departed hero, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu is well deserved.
“Today I reflect on Governor Akeredolu’s passion for justice, rule of law, and the legal profession, I’ve many times expressed admiration for his unwavering commitment and devotion to these principles. At a personal level, I am always elated with awe, each time I observe my late boss discuss the issue of access to justice, rule of law and the general practice of the profession he so loved.”
Aiyedatiwa highlighted Akeredolu’s distinguished tenure as Ondo State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, noting his clarity of mind and unwavering stance against abuse of office and violation of human rights, even in the face of formidable challenges.
“I laud Governor Akeredolu’s proactive approach to legislative reforms, i know of his pivotal role in sponsoring bills aimed at enhancing security, governance, and welfare in Ondo State, We remember with pride today, his sense of urgency and intervention and unusual dedication to the cause of access of justice.”
Earlier in his welcome address, Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, said, “Since December 27, 2023, the shocking news of the painful and untimely transition of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON, has taken us through several stages of emotional trauma and nostalgic moments.”
“I can not but acknowledge Governor Akeredolu’s contributions to governance, particularly in the areas of security, judicial infrastructure, and legislative reforms. I can recall Governor Akeredolu’s vision for a modern judiciary complex and his advocacy for judges’ welfare, emphasizing his dedication to the judiciary’s independence and integrity”
The President, Nigeria Bar Association, represented by the 3rd Vice President, Mandy Demechi-Asagba; Representative Body of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Olusola Oke; Representative Body of Benchers, Charles Edosan; Acting Solicitor General in their remarks said the late Akeredolu was a fervent pursuer of his beliefs.
Earlier, there was lying in state and commendation service in honour of the late governor, held at the Akure township stadium with dignitaries including the Chairman, Nigerian Governors’ Forum, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri; former governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko among others.
Besides, the ancient town of Owo, hometown of the late governor was locked down as the traditional Ajabue Procession was held in honour of the deceased.
The Ajabue Procession was led by the late Governor’s children, Mrs. Yejide Rusewe; Babajide Akeredolu, the late Governor’s siblings, Toyin Akeredolu; Mrs. Modupe Adeyinka, Justice Mobolaji Olajuwon, Femi Akeredolu, and his ally, Mr. Dare Aragbaiye.
Decked in uniform Ankara attires, the people of Owo in their hundreds trooped out to join the Ajabue traditional procession which started from the late Governor’s residence, Ijebu-Owo, GRA.
Speaking after the traditional procession, the late Governor’s son, Babajide, expressed gratitude to the people of Owo for their overwhelming support in celebrating his late father’s life.
He emphasised that the significant turnout and enthusiastic participation in the Ajabue dance demonstrated the love the people have for their late father and the family as a whole.
“I want to sincerely appreciate the people of Owo for their tremendous support, for coming out in large numbers to connect with us, to accompany us, to dance with us, and to engage in all activities related to my late Dad.” he said.
Fidelis David in Akure
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