He Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has mourned Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State who passed away early Wednesday morning.
His departure, the NBA said, “is our collective loss.”
Recalling his contributions to the growth and development of Ondo State and the South-West region, particularly his role in the establishment of the regional security network, Amotekun, the NBA said Akeredolu has left “indelible footprints on the sands of time.”
NBA President Yakubu Maikyau signed a statement honoring Akeredolu on Wednesday.
Akeredolu, affectionately called Aketi, died in a German hospital in the early hours of Wednesday after a prolonged battle with prostate cancer.
Maikyau said Akeredolu, a senior Nigerian defender and former NBA president, would be remembered for his outspokenness and down-to-earth outlook.
“He will be positively remembered for his various contributions to the growth and development of Ondo State and the entire region.
“As Governor, Aketi was at the forefront of establishing the regional security network, Amotekun, to address security concerns in the Western Region.
“So far, the network has been effective in stemming the tide of terrorism, armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, etc., within the region and is now a model to emulate in other regions. For his contributions to the progress of Nigeria, he was recognized by the Federal Government and conferred with the national honor of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in October 2022.
“It cannot be denied that the learned Senior Counsel left indelible footprints on the sands of time,” the statement read in part.
The NBA also praised Mr. Akeredolu’s professional achievements and contributions to the association.
“Aketi, as he was popularly called, was in our lexicon a true bartender who firmly believed in the ability of the legal profession to make a difference in our society. It was this belief that brought him into politics and led him to be elected governor of Ondo State twice.
“Aketi will be remembered primarily for his frankness and realistic perspectives, especially on matters of national importance,” he said.
Maikyau, also a SAN, recalled that Akeredolu was called to the Bar in 1978 and had worked in the NBA in various capacities.
He served variously as Secretary and Vice President of the Ibadan Branch and became the 24th President of the Association from 2008 to 2010, one of the most influential and courageous Presidents to ever lead the NBA.
“The late senior lawyer also served the nation in various other capacities at different times, one of which was as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice from 1997 to 1999 and then as Governor for two terms from 2017 until his passing.”
The NBA commiserated with the entire Akeredolu clan, particularly his wife, Betty, and their children, “for this painful loss.”
The statement added: “I also extend my deepest condolences to the Ondo State Executive Committee and all the people of Ondo State. Aketi’s departure is our collective loss.
“My prayer is that Almighty God comforts the hearts of all his family members, his colleagues and friends. May the peace of God, which is beyond human understanding, protect our hearts and minds through Christ our Lord, Amen.”