A former deputy national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Chief Olabode George, has described the death of former Ondo state governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, as a monumental loss, and a big lesson that those in position of authority must always strive to defend the interests of Nigerians.
George, who recalled the role played by Akeredolu in the formation of the local security outfit in South-West, Amotekun, said he (Akeredolu) stood out when lives and property of people of Ondo state in particular and Yoruba people of South-West were threatened by invaders.
Chief George, who was military governor of old Ondo state (Ondo and Ekiti) from 1987 to 1990, noted that Akeredolu was also Attorney-General and Justice Commissioner before he was elected and reelected as governor in 2016 and 2020.
He died on Wednesday at 67, due to complications from protracted prostate cancer.
The PDP chieftain while commiserating with his family and the people of Ondo State said he was devastated by the news of the demise of the legal giant and politician of note who was once the President of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).
“Akeredolu, who I always referred to as ‘My Aburo’, made a great difference in the lives of his people and the nation through a combination of purposeful leadership and commitment to excellent service delivery.”
Chief George in a statement he personally signed stated that it is really unfortunate and sad that the legal giant, great scholar, politician and administrator par excellence is now being referred to in past tense.
“He was a consummate and courageous politician who spoke truth to power till he breathed his last.
“In the build up to the 2023 presidential election, he stood out as a bold politician by insisting that power must return to the South after eight years of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
“Akeredolu stood his ground by insisting that the right thing must be done.
“When a first class traditional ruler in Ondo State, Oba Israel Adeusi, was killed and when some blood-thirsty maniacs invaded Saint Francis Catholic Church, Owo and killed worshippers, Akeredolu showed courage by insisting that those responsible must be brought to justice. He shed tears, spoke and Abuja listened to him.”
George noted that when Akeredolu was indisposed, it was really unfortunate the needless controversy that emerged over the transfer of power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who is now the governor,” he said.
