Ondo honours late Akeredolu with Leadership Lecture Series
The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Friday, led the state in commemorating the legacy of his predecessor, late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON. This was during the maiden edition of the Akeredolu Leadership Lecture Series held at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure.
Themed “Security Sector Reform in Promoting Peace, Stability, and Development: The Ondo State Example,” the event paid tribute to the late Akeredolu’s contributions to governance, security, and development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, delivering an emotional speech, described the day as one of mixed feelings. Reflecting on Akeredolu’s passing on December 27, 2023, he remarked, “We gather on the threshold of history to honor the first anniversary of the glorious but painful exit of our leader and mentor. He was an icon and a courageous statesman who devoted himself to the service of Ondo State and humanity.”
He lauded Akeredolu’s unwavering commitment to democracy and the rule of law, highlighting his role in establishing the Amotekun Corps, a regional security outfit, and his achievements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and economic development.
“Akeredolu’s legacy of progress is evident everywhere. His passion for securing lives and property made Ondo State one of the safest and most peaceful in Nigeria,” Aiyedatiwa said.
The Governor reaffirmed his dedication to continuing Akeredolu’s vision, citing milestones in infrastructure, security, and social welfare under his administration. “We have mobilized contractors to complete abandoned projects, commenced new road constructions, and implemented impactful policies, including the N73,000 new minimum wage for workers,” he added.
The keynote speaker, renowned human rights lawyer Chief Femi Falana, SAN, praised Akeredolu’s courage and leadership. He highlighted the late governor’s instrumental role in legitimizing Amotekun, which has become a benchmark for state policing in Nigeria.
“Akeredolu was fearless in his pursuit of justice and protection for his people. Even in the face of opposition from the Federal Government, he prioritized the safety of Ondo citizens. His efforts laid the groundwork for the current nationwide acceptance of state policing,” Falana stated.
Falana also addressed the broader issue of insecurity in Nigeria, attributing recent tragedies to systemic failures and calling for compensation for affected families.
He urged Ondo State to harness its agricultural potential, prioritize technical education, and establish robust social security systems to address poverty and unemployment.
Afenifere leader and chairman of the event, Chief Sehinde Arogbofa, praised Akeredolu for his visionary leadership and called on the current administration to sustain and deepen his legacies.
In concluding, Governor Aiyedatiwa vowed to uphold the late leader’s vision, ensuring continued progress for Ondo State.
