In a solemn display of unity and continuity, newly sworn-in Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, led a delegation to Ibadan, Oyo State, to pay a condolence visit to the grieving family of his late predecessor, Rotimi Akeredolu. The visit, which took place just hours after Akeredolu's passing, highlighted the commitment of Governor Aiyedatiwa to honor and perpetuate the legacy left behind by the departed leader.
Akeredolu, who succumbed to illness on Wednesday, witnessed Aiyedatiwa, his deputy, stepping into the role of governor on the same day. In the wake of this transition, Aiyedatiwa wasted no time in expressing his condolences, leading members of the State Executive Council and Ondo State House of Assembly to the Jericho residence of the Akeredolu family.
Addressing the somber gathering, Governor Aiyedatiwa spoke passionately about Akeredolu's leadership, describing him as a "courageous" leader who had governed Ondo State for the past six and a half to seven years. Aiyedatiwa acknowledged the numerous legacies Akeredolu had left behind and expressed his commitment to upholding those values.
"We have to do this because he has always been our leader, a courageous one for that matter, one who has governed Ondo state with great courage and with so many legacies he has left behind," Governor Aiyedatiwa said.
During the condolence visit, Aiyedatiwa took a moment to sign the condolence register, symbolizing his official tribute to the late governor. The Akeredolu family, appreciative of the solidarity shown by the delegation, expressed gratitude and offered prayers for all those grieving.
The visit occurred against a backdrop of widespread condolences pouring in from various quarters, including President Bola Tinubu, governors, lawmakers, and the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA). Tinubu, a close friend and associate of Akeredolu, shared heartfelt sentiments, describing the departed leader as not only a friend and associate but a brother and soulmate.
"Rotimi has played his role well and left us untimely. We will never see his likes again. Let me tell the people of Ondo State that I am grieving with you. We will honor Rotimi’s memory and make sure his legacy of service is never forgotten," Tinubu declared.
As Ondo State mourns the passing of a leader, the visit by Governor Aiyedatiwa signifies a commitment to continuity and the promise to carry forward Akeredolu's impactful legacy in the service of the state.
