By Toba Alabi

William Shakespeare once described life as a stage where everyone plays their part before departing. Similarly, the Holy Bible urges us to number our days to apply our hearts to wisdom. These truths underscore life’s brevity and the importance of leaving a lasting, positive legacy. While wise individuals heed these principles, others dwell in negativity—acrimony, betrayal, hypocrisy, and jealousy.

But such negativity brings neither peace nor divine approval, as emphasized in Hebrews 12:14: “Be at peace with all men and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord.”This tribute, however, is not about the politics of bitterness but about celebrating a man whose life and deeds stood for truth, justice, and progress: Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu.

Akeredolu: The Activist and Leader

One of Akeredolu’s most significant contributions was his instrumental role as Chairman of the South-West Governors’ Forum in founding the Amotekun Security Outfit. This initiative addressed security challenges and restored peace to the forests of the South-West region. For this alone, Akeredolu’s name is etched in gold in the annals of Yoruba history.

Rotimi Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), was also a former president of the Nigerian Bar Association. His professional and political journey was marked by milestones of selfless service and advocacy for equity, fairness, and justice.

Birth, Education, and Career

Born on July 21, 1956, in Owo, Ondo State, to Reverend J. Ola Akeredolu and Lady Evangelist Grace B. Akeredolu, Akeredolu’s educational journey spanned Government Primary School, Owo; Aquinas College, Akure; Loyola College, Ibadan; and Comprehensive High School, Ayetoro. He later studied Law at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), graduating in 1977, and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1978.

He served as Ondo State’s Attorney General (1997–1999), became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 1998, and chaired the Legal Aid Council (2005–2006). In 2008, he was elected President of the Nigerian Bar Association.

Akeredolu’s fearless advocacy extended beyond law and governance. He often challenged electoral malpractices, emphasizing the importance of citizen action in ensuring free and fair elections.

Governor of Ondo State

Elected as Governor of Ondo State under the APC platform in 2016, Akeredolu’s administration prioritized infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security. His achievements include constructing hundreds of kilometers of roads, schools, and healthcare facilities. His leadership shone during crises like the Owo Catholic Church massacre in June 2022, where he provided compassionate guidance to a grieving state.

Passing and Legacy

Governor Akeredolu passed away on December 27, 2023, in a German hospital after battling leukemia and prostate cancer. His prolonged health challenges and absence from office stirred political controversies, including impeachment attempts against his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa. Despite these challenges, Akeredolu remained committed to his duties until his final days.

President Tinubu’s Tribute

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his tribute, described Akeredolu as a fearless advocate, a political soulmate, and a defender of truth. Tinubu praised Akeredolu’s role in founding Amotekun and his commitment to progressive governance. “Rotimi has played his role well and left us untimely. We will never see his likes again,” Tinubu stated, urging Ondo State to uphold Akeredolu’s legacy of service.

Adieu, Aketi

Akeredolu’s contributions to law, governance, and regional security will remain a source of inspiration. His life was a testament to courage, service, and unwavering dedication to justice.Adieu, Arakunrin Akeredolu. Rest in peace, our activist and fighter.

Toba Alabi is a Professor of Political Science and Defence Studies.