BISHOP FAGBEMI, GOV. AIYEDATIWA, FAYEMI, AND FAMILY REFLECT ON LATE GOV. AKEREDOLU’S LIFE AT HIS ONE-YEAR REMEMBRANCE WITH MAUSOLEUM COMMISSIONING AND LEGACY BOOK LAUNCH
The day was marked with a church service at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Imola Street, Owo, followed by the commissioning of a mausoleum and the launch of a book celebrating his legacy, titled Aketi: The Life and Times of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
Leading the activities was his widow, Chief Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, accompanied by their children and spouses. His siblings, led by Prof. Wole Akeredolu, were also present, alongside dignitaries from various walks of life.
In his sermon, the Bishop of Owo Anglican Diocese, Rt. Reverend Ayodeji Fagbemi, highlighted Akeredolu’s unwavering commitment to justice, integrity, and the welfare of the people. He remarked, “If Akeredolu were alive, he would have spoken against the current state of hardship and hunger in our land.” The Bishop also emphasized the need for leaders to address corruption and insecurity.
Dr. John Kayode Fayemi described Akeredolu as a man of courage who always spoke truth to power, stating, “Aketi was fearless and dedicated to the cause of justice and equity.”
Author Dr. Wale Okediran, who penned the biography launched at the event, recounted Akeredolu’s vision for the book before his passing. Reviewer Dr. Femi Adeosun praised the late governor as a leader of exceptional courage, humility, and dedication, whose legacy will endure.
FAMILY SHARES EMOTIONAL REFLECTIONS
Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jr., the late governor’s eldest son, shared his sentiments about the past year. “It has been a long and tough year without Daddy. His absence has left a huge void, and we miss him deeply,” he said.
HONOURING HIS LEGACY
The highlight of the day was the commissioning of the mausoleum at Akeredolu’s burial site by Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire. A statue donated by the Ooni of Ife, represented at the event, was also unveiled.
The remembrance brought together people from across Nigeria to honour a man remembered for his courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of Ondo State and its people.
PROMINENT DIGNITARIES ATTEND
The event was graced by Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami; former Ekiti State Governor Dr. John Kayode Fayemi; Supreme Court Justice Helen Ogunwumiju; and notable politicians, including Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, Hon. Adegboyega Adefarati, and Hon. Timehin Adelegbe.
Other attendees included former members of Akeredolu’s administration, such as Princess Oladunni Odu, Mr. Wale Akinterinwa, and Yeye Oba Bamidele Ademola Olateju, as well as lawmakers, judges, senior advocates, and friends of the late governor.
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