Akeredolu: Nigeria lost a fearless soldier – Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu has described the former governor of Ondo State, late Rotimi Akeredolu as a fearless soldier for his unwavering advocate for the people of the state.
Daily Trust Saturday reports that Akeredolu died on December 27 after suffering prostate cancer, aged 67.
Tinubu, who spoke yesterday at the funeral service held at the St Andrews Church, Imola in Owo, lauded his courage and dedication to serve the state.
The President, who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, eulogised Akerdolu, whom he noted left behind an “indomitable legacy of national service.”
“As we gather here today, we are confronted with one inexorable truth: seasons come and seasons go; much like the ebb and flow of our lives, and each of us shall go with the tides one after the other.”
While tracing the late Akeredolu’s journey from his legal career to his pivotal role as governor of Ondo State, Tinubu also saluted him for his vast intelligence and the profound impact of his leadership.
“There was no point in life where his voice shook in telling his truth. He was a vastly intelligent man whose passion has created quite a wide vacuum beyond this community,” he said.
The president particularly emphasised Akeredolu’s commitment to serving through democratic means while alive, saying the late governor recognised the most pragmatic path to serving humanity.
Earlier, the state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa said the people of the state will not forget the indelible impact the late Akeredolu left behind.
In her tribute, the widow of the late governor, Betty Anyanwu Akeredolu, said Akeredolu was a lovely husband while alive.
The funeral service was attended by Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Abiodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State and Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, among many other dignitaries and personalities.