By Oluwatosin Maliki
Following the death of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, politicians and prominent figures across the country have mourned his death, offering condolences to his grieving family.
A Senior Advocate Of Nigeria, Dr Olukayode Ajulo, in a tribute message, celebrated the achievements of the late Governor and his impact in the society.
The message was titled; “Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, A Paragon Of Boldness And Fearlessness.”
Olukayode Ajulo lamented over the Governor’s demise, writing, “In the depths of my grief, I pen these words to honor the profound loss of a brother Silk, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, the Governor of Ondo State. The weight of his departure hit me with a crushing force as I touched down in London from Abuja.”
The renowned lawyer reminisced how he crossed paths with the Governor when he was alive and the similarities they shared, stating, “For over four decades, our lives intertwined in the vibrant city of Ibadan, where I had the privilege of knowing this extraordinary man. He, the son of an Anglican clergy and I, the son of an Anglican bookseller, formed a bond that surpassed societal divisions.”
“I therefore pay tribute to a leader who fearlessly spoke his mind, leaving an indelible mark on our lives.”
Ajulo said Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu was a paragon of boldness and fearlessness.
According to him, his spirit knew no bounds when it came to standing up for what he believed in, consequences be damned.
He added that the late Governor was an upright man who possessed a rare courage that allowed him to express his thoughts, whether they were received as good or bad.
His words resonated with unwavering honesty, a testament to his commitment to truth and justice.
Furthermore, Ajulo highlighted his importance in the society, saying in a world often mired in silence and complacency, his unwavering voice served as a beacon of inspiration.
Additionally, the impact of Governor Akeredolu’s leadership on Ondo State cannot be overstated. His visionary guidance and unwavering dedication brought about transformative changes in the lives of countless individuals.
He also brought change in several sectors including education, healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture, and they all flourished under his watchful eye.
Also, the SAN noted that the people of Ondo State witnessed firsthand the tangible progress he initiated, leaving an indelible legacy that will echo through the corridors of time.
However, he said like every mortal in greatness, Governor Akeredolu was not immune to imperfections. Like all of us, he had his flaws and shortcomings, but it was through acknowledging and accepting these imperfections that he demonstrated his humanity, adding that Akeredolu’s willingness to learn from his mistakes and strive for personal growth served as a powerful example, reminding us that perfection is not the measure of a person.
While bidding farewell to Akeredolu, Ajulo expressed overwhelming sadness, saying that “The loss of a leader, a cherished friend, and a revered learned brother Silk leaves a void that will take time to be filled.
“Yet, I find solace in the inspiration and enduring legacy he leaves behind. The lives he touched, the dreams he nurtured, the positive change he wrought—all will continue to bear witness to his remarkable spirit.”
“May Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu’s soul find eternal rest, cradled in the arms of serenity. Rest in peace, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu,” the SAN prayed.