•••Akeredolu’s Legacy is a Sacred Duty, Says Governor Aiyedatiwa
In a poignant tribute to the late Governor Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, pledged to sustain the legacies of his predecessor during the maiden edition of the Akeredolu Leadership Lecture Series.
Held on Friday at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure, the event marked the first anniversary of Akeredolu’s passing, themed “Security Sector Reform in Promoting Peace, Stability, and Development: The Ondo State Example.”
Addressing a gathering of dignitaries, Aiyedatiwa described the day as both solemn and historic.
“Today, we gather on the threshold of history, with mixed feelings, in commemoration of the first anniversary of the glorious but painful exit of our leader and mentor, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu. His leadership was marked by integrity, transparency, and a deep understanding of the needs of our people,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He highlighted Akeredolu’s transformative contributions, including the establishment of the Amotekun Corps, a security initiative that has become a model for other states.
“Arakunrin Akeredolu was that courageous leader who spoke truth to power and fought for the advancement of democracy and the Rule of Law. His passion for the security of lives and property has made Ondo State one of the safest and most peaceful in Nigeria,” Aiyedatiwa added.
The Governor reaffirmed his commitment to preserving Akeredolu’s vision of development. “On my inauguration as constitutional successor, I made a solemn commitment to carry on his mantle of leadership. This is not just a promise; it is a sacred duty,” he stated.
Aiyedatiwa cited ongoing efforts such as completing abandoned projects, implementing the N73,000 minimum wage for workers, and prioritizing security and infrastructure.
Renowned human rights lawyer and keynote speaker, Chief Femi Falana, SAN, extolled Akeredolu’s boldness in leadership.
“Akeredolu was a very courageous man who challenged institutional failings. His establishment of Amotekun has made Ondo State a reference point in security matters across Nigeria,” Falana said.
He called for holistic reforms to address insecurity, citing poverty and unemployment as key drivers of crime.
Bashorun Sehinde Arogbofa, the event chairman and Afenifere leader, commended Akeredolu for prioritizing the security and development of Ondo State.
He praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for sustaining the Amotekun initiative and urged continued efforts to uphold Akeredolu’s vision.
The event served as a resounding affirmation of the late governor’s enduring legacy and a call to action for sustaining his transformative impact on Ondo State.
