The burial proceedings for the late former governor of Ondo State, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, continued on Wednesday with a special court session and lying-in-state held in Akure.
Akeredolu, who succumbed to prostate cancer on December 27, 2023, in Germany, had his body repatriated to Akure, the capital of Ondo State. It was then taken to the Governor’s Office, Alagbaka, for the lying-in-state ceremony.
Following that, officials conveyed the remains of the late Senior Advocate of Nigeria to the state High Court headquarters in Akure, where they convened a special court session in his honor.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were the incumbent Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the Ondo State Chief Judge, Justice Olusegun Odusola, and Chief Olusola Oke (SAN) representing the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria. Also present were Mr. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, and Governor of Kwara State, as well as the Ondo State Deputy Governor, Mr. Olayide Adelami, Governor of Bayelsa State, Mr. Douye Diri, and the Minister of State for Youths Development, Mr. Ayo Akinwande, among others.
During the court session, Governor Aiyedatiwa paid tribute to his predecessor, highlighting Akeredolu’s contributions to strengthening the state’s judicial system. He emphasized Akeredolu’s commitment to utilizing the rule of law in combating crimes during his tenure.
Transitioning to the lying-in-state ceremony at the Akure Township Stadium, Governor Aiyedatiwa portrayed Akeredolu as a dedicated patriot who consistently championed justice for the marginalized. He described the late governor as a resolute and principled leader.
Justice Olusegun Odusola, the state’s Chief Judge, commended Akeredolu’s courage in tackling security challenges, hailing his innovative approach as a national benchmark. He noted Akeredolu’s down-to-earth demeanor and his unwavering determination to fulfill his promises despite obstacles.
Representing the Body of Senior Advocates of Nigeria, Chief Olusola Oke lauded Akeredolu’s legacy, describing him as a hero and a fearless advocate for the oppressed. Oke emphasized Akeredolu’s honesty, fearlessness, and compassion for the downtrodden, portraying him as a beacon of integrity and justice.
In conclusion, the ceremonies underscored the profound impact of Akeredolu’s leadership, highlighting his enduring legacy as a defender of justice and champion of the marginalized.
