Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has led the people of Ondo State in honouring the memory of the late former governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, marking the second anniversary of his passing.
In a poignant tribute released on Saturday, Aiyedatiwa described the late statesman as a visionary leader and a champion of progressive governance whose legacy continues to redefine the security and political landscape of Nigeria.
Aiyedatiwa highlighted Akeredolu’s most enduring contribution: the establishment of the South West Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun Corps.
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The governor noted that Akeredolu’s famous declaration—”I will not play politics with the lives of my people”—drove the mobilisation of Southwest colleagues to create a regional security framework.
This foresight, Aiyedatiwa observed, has now gained national acceptance, as evidenced by recent Senate resolutions aligning with President Bola Tinubu’s agenda to decentralise policing.
Recalling their shared journey that began in 2012, Aiyedatiwa described himself as a direct product of Akeredolu’s intentional leadership.
He revealed that the late governor frequently reflected on the responsibility of leaders to deliberately prepare successors through guidance and trust.
“I remain deeply conscious that I am one of the legacies of his political leadership—prepared through mentorship, tested through responsibility, and guided by the values he exemplified,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
He recalled how Akeredolu publicly expressed confidence in his capacity during their joint inauguration on February 24, 2021, and at various State Executive Council meetings.
As the state marked the anniversary, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding Akeredolu’s vision by sustaining the drive for development, justice, and equity.
He also pledged full state support for the Akeredolu Foundation, established by the Akeredolu family to immortalise the “great son of Owo land.”
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In addition, the governor assured that the administration would continue on the path of orderly governance and constitutional stability championed by Akeredolu.
“May Ondo State continue to draw strength from his exemplary life of courage, service, and principled leadership,” the governor said.
