Akeredolu Helped Me Reclaim My Mandate in 2007, Aregbesola Mourns

The immediate-past minister of Interior, Mr Rauf Aregbesola, has described the life of the ex-Ondo State governor, the late Rotimi Akeredolu (SAN), as a mirror of an admirable legacy.

This is as he praised the late Akeredolu for his invaluable role as a member of the legal team that helped him retrieve his Osun governorship mandate through the courts in 2007.

He noted that Akeredolu’s demise was a personal loss to him.

Akeredolu died at the age of 67 on Wednesday in Germany after battling a protracted prostate cancer.

In a tribute he signed and released on Friday, in Osogbo, Aregbesola recalled Akeredolu’s integral role in the legal team that fought to reclaim the mandate given to him by the electorate in the 2007 Osun State Governorship poll.

According to Aregbesola, the deceased, alongside others, navigated the challenging litigation, demonstrating tenacity and dedication in championing both the Action Congress of Nigeria’s cause and the people’s will.

Noting that Akeredolu was not just a leader, Aregbesola said the ex-national president of the Nigerian Bar Association was a friend, a radical colleague, and a brother committed to the cause.

The statement partly read, “Aketi’s life was a mirror of the admirable legacy he has woven.

“He navigated his roles with excellence—from steering the Nigerian Bar Association to advocating brilliantly in Nigeria’s highest courts, and from fostering progress across Ondo as governor to championing the unity of our federation.

“In a gesture of magnanimity and connection, Aketi opened the doors of his office to celebrate the silver jubilee of my alma mater in February 2022.

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“He was a gracious host, personally welcoming me during my tenure as the minister of interior on two critical occasions.

“The first visit was to inaugurate a state-of-the-art fire engine for the Federal Fire Service in Akure, and the second, a more sombre affair, was to understand the devastating impact of the terrorist attack in Owo and extend condolences to the people of Ondo on behalf of the President.

“Each visit underscored his dedication to service and the well-being of his community.

“Arakunrin stood out as a true advocate for regional unity, actively engaging in initiatives that propelled this vision forward.

“Notably, he was the sole governor to join Osun in embracing the Omoluabi anthem, illustrating his commitment to regional solidarity.

“His absence will be deeply felt by nationalists, federalists, and patriots alike, for he was a staunch supporter of progressive ideals.

“I feel a profound personal loss as I extend my heartfelt sympathies to his wife, children, and the broader Ondo community upon Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s passing.

“On behalf of my family and colleagues, please accept our deepest condolences.”