‘Akeredolu, an exceptional statesman,’ Governors mourn

Governors of the 36 states of the federation have expressed shock over the demise of their colleague and Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu.

Kwara State governor and chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, in a statement on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, described Akeredolu’s exit as painful.

The governors expressed sadness over Akeredolu’s death, describing him as an “exceptional statesman” who made indelible marks in public service.

The statement read in part, “My heartfelt condolences go to the Progressives Governors’ Forum, the government and people of Ondo State, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), as well as the immediate family of my dear brother and colleague His Excellency Olurotimi Akeredolu (SAN).

“A frontline lawyer and conscientious politician of progressive bent, His Excellency would be remembered for his courage, patriotism, and immeasurable contributions to the constitutional and sociopolitical development of Nigeria.

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“As painful as his exit is to all of us, we take solace in his fine legacies as a gentleman and statesman. We ask God to repose his soul and look after his family.”

Akeredolu had spent three months abroad for medical treatment and later returned to Nigeria.

He stayed in his residence in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, where he was recuperating. The development triggered controversies in Ondo as his officials and family members jostled for control of government.

Recently, he transmitted a letter to the state House of Assembly informing the lawmakers of his resolve to embark on another medical vacation. He also transmitted power to the deputy governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.