The Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, has passed away at the age of 67 on Wednesday December 27, 2023, following an extended battle with prostate cancer. The Ondo State government conveyed this unfortunate news through a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju. Akeredolu breathed his last in Germany in the early hours of Wednesday, succumbing to complications that arose from his protracted struggle with the aforementioned ailment.
Akeredolu’s health had prompted a three-month medical leave in Germany, after which he returned to Nigeria. Despite his ailing condition, he continued to govern Ondo State from his residence in Ibadan. The governor’s determination to fulfill his responsibilities was evident, even in the face of health challenges.
The statement by the Ondo government read, “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the tragic passing of our beloved Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.”
The sad news of Akeredolu’s demise comes at a time when he was planning to take another leave of absence in December 2023. President Bola Tinubu had instructed him to transfer control to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who had been serving as the Acting Governor during his previous medical leave.
Born on July 21, 1956, in Owo, Ondo State, Akeredolu underwent his primary education in Akure, followed by secondary schooling in Ibadan. He pursued a law degree at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), graduating in 1977 and subsequently being called to the Bar in 1978.
His public service journey included a notable stint as the Attorney General of Ondo State from 1997 to 1999. Akeredolu further distinguished himself by assuming the role of the President of the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) from 2008 to 2010.
In 2016, he entered the political arena, contesting for the position of Ondo State governor under the All-Progressives Party. Successfully elected, Akeredolu commenced his first term in office from 2017 to 2020. Demonstrating continued voter confidence, he secured a second term, leading the state from 2020 to 2023.
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