The Ondo State Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, has tragically passed away after a long and valiant struggle with prostate cancer.
This development was contained in a statement by the State information and Orientation commissioner, Bamidele Ademola-Olateju.
According to her, Governor Akeredolu died while receiving medical treatment in Germany after complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.
The statement reads: “Mr Governor peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023.”
“This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts. Governor Akeredolu answered the eternal call while receiving medical treatment in Germany. He succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.”
“Governor Akeredolu was an extraordinary leader whose unwavering dedication to the state and its people was both commendable and unparalleled.”
“He not only served as the Governor of Ondo State but also emerged as a prominent advocate for the entire Southwest region and the nation.”
“Governor Akeredolu was a courageous leader and an exemplar of integrity. The weight of this loss is truly unbearable.”
“We find solace in the knowledge that Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu lived a purposeful life, devoted to the service of God Almighty.”
She added: “The Family and the Ondo State Government appreciate Mr. President for his support for Governor Akeredolu during his illness.”
“The family and the state government will release further details regarding the funeral arrangements.”
The 67-year-old leader had recently returned to Nigeria in September after a three-month medical leave in Germany, only to embark on another leave as directed by President Bola Tinubu, during which he handed over power to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
The passing of Governor Akeredolu marks a somber moment for Ondo State, as the late leader’s contributions and challenges during his tenure are remembered by the community he served.
Born on 21 July 1956, Akeredolu was a Nigerian lawyer and politician who served as governor of Ondo State from 24 February 2017 until his death on 27 December 2023.
He was a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) who became president of the Nigerian Bar Association in 2008. Akeredolu was also a Managing Partner at the law firm of Olujinmi & Akeredolu, which he co-founded with Chief Akin Olujinmi, a former Attorney General and Minister for Justice of Nigeria.
During his time as the governor of Ondo State, he also doubled as the chairman of Southwest Governors’ Forum, a forum consisting of governors of the Southwest Nigerian states.
The editorial board of The Nigerian Canadian Newspaper, Canada, sympathizes with his family over the tragic death of the governor.
