Former Attorney-General of the Federation & Minister of Justice, Adetokunbo Kayode, has described late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu of Ondo, as a committed nationalist who had achieved more than those that live longer.
Kayode who stated this in a tribute made available to journalists in Akure, the state capital, said Akeredolu was not only a respected leader but a quintessential Barman.
According to the former minister who said Akeredolu was an accomplished individual, a committed nationalist, saying he was an Oodua to the core.
Kayode said “He showed that these two qualities were possible to hold together in the spirit of Awoism.
“Aketi, his lifelong nickname, was easily and meritoriously honoured by this nation as a Commander of The Order of the Niger. An honour he very well deserved. An honour that captured his very essence. He was a Commander of men, and of ideas.
“By Ondo Yoruba standards, Aketi died a young man, below seventy years. But then we see that it is never how long, but how well. Within the time allotted to him by the Almighty, he achieved more than most who lived even up to eighty or more years.
“Aketi’s contributions to the legal profession, as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), a Life Bencher, and his service first as Attorney-General of Ondo State and later as Governor of Ondo State, will be remembered and cherished.
“Having attained the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Rotimi Akeredolu exemplified excellence and professionalism in the practice of law. He served as an inspiration for many aspiring lawyers and a role model for colleagues within the NBA.
“Rotimi Akeredolu SAN left a lasting impact on the legal profession through his dedicated service to the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). As the 24th President of the NBA, he served NBA with commitment and integrity.
“His tireless efforts towards the advancement of the legal community were commendable. His expertise and guidance helped shape the legal profession.
“As Governor of Ondo State, Aketi made significant contributions to national security through the establishment of the Amotekun corps which was aimed at enhancing security and safeguarding the lives and properties of the people in the state, in the Southwest and in Nigeria.
“This initiative demonstrated his commitment to the well-being of the citizens and his proactive approach to addressing security challenges. His legacy in the field of national security will and must undoubtedly continue to inspire this and future generations.
“Aketi loved life and living. Which is just very well because life is a storm. An ephemeral storm. He never tried to calm the storm. Only Jesus could do that. He would rather calm himself as every storm must pass. Aketty’s storm has passed. He is calm where he is now.
“Aketi was not perfect. Only the Almighty God is. But he strove to do his best. Ultimately that is what matters most. And that’s the lesson we all must imbibe.
“So during this sorrowful time, I offer my deepest condolences to all of us, family, friends, and colleagues. Let all of us find comfort in the legacy of Oluwarotimi “Aketi” Akeredolu. His service to Ondo state, Southwest Nigeria and Nigeria endures as a testament to his zest for life, his humanity, his dedication, his passion, and his outstanding contributions.”
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