President of the Senate, Senator Godwill Akpabio, CON, has described the late governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu CON, SAN, as a nationalist and the Iroko of the Sunshine State.
Akpabio, in a condolence message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, said Akeredolu was a leader that knew his onions and was indeed the Iroko of Ondo State as he defended the state with all his strength as governor.
The Senate President eulogised the late governor whom he said spent his active life fighting for justice, fairness and equity.
He added that, as a nationalist, “Akeredolu believed in true federalism, which he pursued with passion and vigour.
“I am sad that we have to lose Chief Rotimi Akeredolu this early in life. He was a leader that placed the interest of his people above every other consideration.
“Chief Akeredolu was a man of integrity and strong conviction with a strict work ethos and never paid lip service to the welfare of the people of the state.
“He was a fearless lawyer who spoke truth to power regardless of whose ox was gored. As governor, Chief Akeredolu left his footprints in the sands of history.
“He executed landmark projects and implemented people-oriented policies that earned him a second term in office. A man of style, Chief Akeredolu was obsessed with excellence.
“I believe the people of Ondo, the South West, and the entire Nigeria, especially the progressives will sorely miss Chief Rotimi Akeredolu because he lived a purposeful and focused life and distinguished himself as a lawyer and one of the best-performing governors in the country.
“I wish to, on behalf of my family and the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, extend my sincere condolences to the Acting Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Government and people of Ondo State and particularly his wife, Her Excellency, Mrs Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu and his immediate family.
“May God give you the fortitude to bear this untimely loss and may He have mercy on him and grant his soul eternal rest.”
