Afrigather 
President Bola Tinubu has expressed profound grief over the passing of Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State, describing him as a “fearless brother, confidant, political soulmate, and a real statesman.”
Akeredolu handed away on Wednesday morning after battling with a chronic sickness.
In an announcement titled “I Mourn My Fearless Brother, Rotimi Akeredolu,” the president highlighted Akeredolu’s unwavering dedication to justice, fairness, and safety, each as a authorized skilled and governor.
He lauded his position in advocating for native police within the South West and his resolute management through the Owo church bloodbath, calling him a “mourner-in-chief who guided his individuals via an agonising interval.”
“Through the darkish hours when marauding brokers of darkness visited the state and killed defenceless residents the place 40 worshippers of the Catholic Church of Owo have been killed on June 5, 2022, Rotimi’s management qualities as a real statesman and compassionate chief radiated brightly to the world. He was a mourner-in-chief who guided his individuals via an agonising interval. At the moment, I mourn a fighter and fearless defender of reality and the lots,” Tinubu stated.
He recalled their shared journey within the progressive motion, their battle to reclaim stolen mandates, and his encouragement for Akeredolu to pursue the governorship of Ondo State.
“He confirmed unusual braveness as a member of our authorized staff in our battles to reclaim our stolen mandates in Ekiti, Ondo, Edo, and Osun States. A gallant lawyer and one of many best of the authorized occupation. I beckoned on him to contest for the governorship place of Ondo State in 2012.
“His enthusiasm and willpower to serve his individuals by no means diminished,” Tinubu stated, emphasising Akeredolu’s eventual victory and devoted service.
Acknowledging the nationwide loss, Tinubu provided condolences to the individuals of Ondo State, promising to honour Akeredolu’s reminiscence and guarantee his legacy lives on.
He sympathised with Akeredolu’s spouse, Betty, and his successor, Fortunate Aiyedatiwa, urging them to search out solace amidst the nationwide tragedy.
The president’s assertion additionally hinted on the political ramifications of Akeredolu’s loss of life, calling him a “blow to our governing APC and the progressive household.”
He expressed hope that Aiyedatiwa would carry the torch of his predecessor’s imaginative and prescient for the state.
