•Falana, Arogbofa, others extols virtues of late ex-Ondo Gov

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has vowed to continue the monumental work of his predecessor, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON, in securing the state’s future.

Speaking at the maiden Akeredolu Memorial Lecture Series on Friday at the International Culture and Events Centre (The Dome) in Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa outlined his administration’s commitment to build on the foundations laid by Akeredolu, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructure, and governance.

The event, which marked Aiyedatiwa’s first year in office with theme, “Security Sector Reform in Promoting Peace, Stability, and Development: The Ondo State Example”, also served as an emotional tribute to Akeredolu’s enduring impact on the state.

In a speech laced with emotion, Governor Aiyedatiwa, who reflected on the profound loss of his mentor, said, “Today, we gather on the threshold of history, with mixed feelings, in commemoration of the first anniversary of the glorious but painful exit of our leader and mentor, the late Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

“On that unforgettable day, December 27, 2023, mountains moved and the earth shook at the loss of the icon and courageous statesman who emptied himself in service to our dear Sunshine State and humanity.”

The governor highlighted Akeredolu’s exceptional leadership, noting that his administration’s efforts in securing the state through the establishment of the Amotekun Corps had left an indelible mark.

“Arakunrin Akeredolu was that courageous leader who spoke truth to power and fought for the advancement of democracy and the rule of law.

“His leadership was marked by integrity, transparency, and a deep understanding of the needs of our people. He fought gallantly alongside his colleague governors in the Southwest to establish the Amotekun Corps, a home-grown security outfit that has become a reference point in Nigeria,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

The governor made it clear that his administration would not merely remember Akeredolu’s contributions but would actively continue with them.

His words: “On my inauguration as constitutional successor, I made a solemn commitment to carry on his mantle of leadership.

“This is not just a promise; it is a sacred duty.”

He listed the numerous initiatives that had been undertaken in the past year to include the completion of abandoned projects, construction of new roads, the introduction of a new N73,000 minimum wage for workers, and the regular payment of salaries and pensions.

“We have made tangible progress in agriculture, infrastructure, and security, continuing to build on the foundation laid by Akeredolu, underscoring the administration’s dedication to improving the lives of Ondo State residents,” he added.

The governor also acknowledged the trust placed in him by the people of Ondo State, referring to his resounding victory in the November 2024 gubernatorial election in which he won in all the 18 local government areas.

“The outcome of the recent gubernatorial election is a clear expression of the people’s trust and confidence in our administration.

“This renewed mandate places a greater burden on us to strive harder for the happiness and well-being of our people,” Aiyedatiwa stated.

He further praised the event’s chairman, Bashorun Seinde Arogbofa, and keynote speaker, Chief Femi Falana, SAN, for their roles in shaping the state’s legacy.

“We are very intentional about the choice of these two great men. Their presence enriches this momentous occasion,” the governor said.

In his address, Falana extolled Akeredolu for his boldness in confronting injustice and his dedication to developing the State.

He also lauded the late governor for his foresight in establishing the Amotekun Corps, which he described as a landmark achievement that had made Ondo State a model for security reform in Nigeria.

However, Falana was quick to point out the need for broader reforms in Nigeria’s security sector, particularly in addressing the root causes of crime.

“Until the government addresses poverty and unemployment, insecurity will persist.

“Security is not just about physical protection; it’s about ensuring access to education, employment, and food,” he stated.

“As the governor marked his first year in office, Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to continuing Akeredolu’s work is clear.

“His words reflect a deep respect for his predecessor’s legacy and a firm resolve to ensure that Ondo State remains on the path of peace, stability, and progress,” Falana stated.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, widow of the late Governor Akeredolu, has come under heavy criticism, for her recent remarks concerning the memorial lecture organised in honour of her husband by the Ondo State Government.

In an opinion piece titled “Outburst of an ‘Incurable Narcissist’: A Disservice to Akeredolu’s Legacy,” the convener, Social Rehabilitation Gruupe(SRG), Charles Oludare Marindoti, described Mrs Betty’s comments as “crass” and a blatant act of self-centredness.

He said the memorial lecture was initiated to celebrate the late governor’s enduring contributions to the state, but Mrs. Akeredolu referred to the event as a “419 lecture” aimed at exploiting her husband’s name.

The US-based medic accused Mrs. Akeredolu of weaponising her grief and turning a solemn occasion into a spectacle of antagonism.

He cited her criticisms as “unfounded” and reflective of deep-seated bitterness, stating that her public outbursts tarnish the legacy of a leader who was celebrated for integrity and justice.

According to him, Governor Akeredolu’s life was marked by courageous leadership, most notably his establishment of the Amotekun security outfit to protect lives and properties in Ondo State.

Praising the Ondo State Government and Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for their efforts to honour the late governor, Marindoti emphasised that the memorial lecture was a genuine attempt to reflect on Akeredolu’s contributions to the state.

He called on Mrs. Akeredolu to adopt a more constructive approach, urging her to either respect her husband’s legacy or refrain from attacking those who seek to honour it.