Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has led heartfelt tributes to mark the second anniversary of the passing of his predecessor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. The governor released a special statement in Akure on Saturday, December 27, 2025, honouring the late leader's profound impact on the state and the nation.
A Visionary Leader and Security Architect
In his tribute, Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted Akeredolu's pivotal role as a foremost advocate for state policing in Nigeria. He credited the late governor with playing a key part in mobilising fellow South-West governors to establish the South-West Security Network, known as Amotekun Corps.
This initiative, Aiyedatiwa noted, fundamentally redefined subnational security approaches in the country. It laid a critical foundation for the ongoing national discourse on decentralised and intelligence-led policing models, securing Akeredolu's legacy as a regional security architect.
Mentorship and Constitutional Succession
Governor Aiyedatiwa reflected on his long political association with the late leader, emphasising Akeredolu's unwavering commitment to mentorship and orderly succession. He stated that throughout his tenure, Akeredolu consistently prioritised leadership development, planning for the future, and ensuring institutional stability.
"The late governor demonstrated a strong commitment to grooming future leaders and believed in orderly, constitutional succession," Aiyedatiwa affirmed. He acknowledged that Akeredolu's trust and guidance had a deep and lasting influence on his own journey in public service, shaping the core values of his administration.
Upholding a Legacy of Justice and Unity
Governor Aiyedatiwa pledged that the Ondo State Government and its people would continue to honour Akeredolu's memory by steadfastly upholding his ideals. He identified these core principles as justice, equity, and unity.
"As the government and people of Ondo State, we remember and honour Arakunrin Akeredolu on the second anniversary of his passing. We celebrate his passion for development, advocacy for justice, equity, and unity," the governor declared.
He further promised the state's continued support for the foundation established by the Akeredolu family to immortalise the late governor's work. Governor Aiyedatiwa concluded his tribute with a prayer for the peaceful repose of Akeredolu's soul and a call to action for residents.
He urged the people of Ondo State to draw continual inspiration from Akeredolu's exemplary courage, dedicated service, and principled leadership, which he said continues to guide the path of governance in the state.
