Rotimi Akeredolu Dies: Things You Didn’t Know About The Governor

The State of Ondo is in mourning as Governor Rotimi Akeredolu passed away at 67. The Ondo State Government officially confirmed the sad news, and the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, stated on Wednesday detailing the governor’s demise. Governor Akeredolu lost his battle with prostate cancer in Germany on December 27, 2023.

Akeredolu‘s administration had been under scrutiny due to his decision to withhold power from his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, leading to criticisms from various quarters. The governor had commenced his medical leave in June, which was later extended based on medical advice. He formally transferred authority to Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to address his health challenges and proceeded on another medical vacation on December 13.

Rotimi Akeredolu, popularly known as “Aketi,” significantly impacted Nigeria’s political landscape. His life was marked by a trajectory of advocacy, legal practice, and leadership roles, including serving as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association. This report outlines key events that shaped his political and professional journey.

Early Life & Education

1. Born on July 21, 1956, in Owo, Ondo State.
2. Completed primary education at Government School, Owo, followed by secondary education at Aquinas College, Akure, and Loyola College, Ibadan.
3. Obtained an LLB degree from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1977.
4. Called to the Nigerian Bar in 1978.

Personal Life & Family

1. A Christian with a Chapel of Epiphany dedicated at his Owo residence.
2. Born to Reverend J. Ola Akeredolu (father) and Lady Evangelist Grace B. Akeredolu (mother).
3. Married to Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, with four children.

Political & Professional Career

1. Governor of Ondo State since February 24, 2017.
2. Served as the Secretary-General of the Nigerian Bar Association Ibadan branch (1985-1986).
3. Attorney General of Ondo State (1997-1999) and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (1998).
4. President of the Nigerian Bar Association (2008-2009).
5. Managed the law firm Olujinmi & Akeredolu.
6. Awarded Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in October 2022.

Significant Achievements

Security and Advocacy:

• Instrumental in establishing the Regional Security Network, Amotekun, to address regional security concerns.
• Active support in combating criminal activities, including terrorism, banditry, armed robbery, and kidnapping.
• Resolving conflicts between herders and farmers.

Infrastructure:

• Initiatives included the dualisation of Oke-Alabojuto Road in Ikare-Akoko and the reconstruction of Emure to Owo Road.
• Infrastructural investment and accreditation of previously unaccredited courses at the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo.

Economy

• Established the Ondo-Linyil Industrial Hub in Ore.
• Promoted agribusiness, tractor subsidies, land clearing, and projects empowering farmers and youth.

Governor Rotimi Akeredolu leaves behind a legacy of service, dedication, and notable contributions to the development of Ondo State. The people of Ondo mourn the loss of a leader who played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s political and socio-economic landscape.