The Ondo state government has confirmed that the state Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotini Akeredolu died in Germany on Wednesday, December 27. He was 67 years old.
According to a statement by the state commissioner for information and orientation, Mrs Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, the Governor succumbed to complications arising from protracted prostate cancer.
She said “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the tragic passing of our beloved Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON.
“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.
“A letter has been sent to President Bola Tinubu, GCFR, to officially inform His Excellency of this devastating news. 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.
“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.
“However, we find solace in the knowledge that Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu lived a purposeful life, devoted to the service of God Almighty.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of Ondo State Christian Association of Nigeria, Very Revd. Fr. Anselm Ologunwa has described the death of Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu as a colossal loss to the state and Nigeria as a whole.
A statement from the director of information and communications of the association, Mr Daisi Ajayi said, Fr. Ologunwa expressed shock to have received the sudden news of the death of the Governor.
Fr. Ologunwa described Governor Akeredolu as a great fighter of democracy, and a dedicated and loving father of all.
According to him, the Governor had exhibited several outstanding qualities during his tenure of administration ranging from the establishment of Amotekun security outfit and his stand on the unity of the country.
The chairman affirmed that Akeredolu is well noted for his firmness in decision making as being usually called, ” Mr Talk and Do” Governor.
He also identified various infrastructural development his administration embarked upon ranging from roads, buildings and other social development across the state.