Olurotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, popularly known as “Aketi,” was more than a political figure; he was a visionary leader, a legal luminary, and a passionate advocate for the people. Born on 21 July 1956 in Owo to Reverend J. Ola Akeredolu and Lady Evangelist Grace B. Akeredolu, his upbringing was steeped in Christian values and a commitment to education.

Akeredolu’s educational journey began at Government Primary School in Owo, setting the foundation for a life dedicated to learning and service. His middle name, Odunayo, meaning “Year of happiness” in Yoruba, foreshadowed a life marked by significant accomplishments.

Venturing into higher education, Akeredolu attended Aquinas College in Akure, Loyola College in Ibadan, and Comprehensive High School, Ayetoro, for his secondary and Higher School Certificate education, respectively. The University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) became the grounds for his legal pursuits, and he emerged in 1977 as a graduate in Law. During his student years, Akeredolu showcased his leadership acumen by becoming the president of the Law Students Society and an active member of the National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS). The Nigerian Law School called him to the bar in 1978.

Akeredolu’s professional journey evolved symbiotically from a lawyer to a seasoned politician. He commenced his legal career at Alex Ibru and Co law firm, eventually establishing the Olujinmi & Akeredolu law firm, where he served as the managing partner alongside former Attorney General of Ondo State, Akin Olujinmi. His legal prowess culminated in his appointment as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Ondo State from 1997 to 1999, earning him the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria in 1998.

His tenure as the President of the Nigerian Bar Association in 2008 solidified his influence in the legal realm. A vocal critic of the Nigerian government, Akeredolu utilized his position as NBA president to critique the Yaradua administration. This principled stance exemplified his commitment to justice and the rule of law.

Akeredolu’s political foray gained momentum when he entered the gubernatorial election race, competed against Mimiko in 2012 under the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) but was defeated. Unruffled, Akeredolu’s resilience propelled him to re-contest in 2016, securing a significant victory against Eyitayo Jegede of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Akeredolu’s leadership style, characterised by simplicity and a close connection to the grassroots, was symbolized by his preference for the title “Arakunrin” over “His Excellency” when he became the governor of Ondo state.

His triumph for a second term in 2021 was propelled by his noteworthy administrative achievements, which effectively tackled challenges in infrastructure development, economic revitalization, and social welfare across Ondo state.

Here are some highlights of his administration’s first term achievements:

Governance and Civil Service Welfare

• Committed to no worker victimization, prioritizing workers’ welfare.
• Successfully offset six out of seven months of inherited salary arrears.
• Removed political influence from the progression of diligent public officials.
• Maintained up-to-date promotions based on merit.

Infrastructure Development by Senatorial Districts

North Senatorial District

• Undertook the flattening of Oke-Alabojuto Road in Ikare-Akoko as a dual carriageway.
• Completed various road projects in Akoko despite financial challenges.

Central Senatorial District

• Embarked on massive rehabilitation and construction of internal road network.
• Notable interventions in Akure, including road projects like ‘A’ Division – Oba Osupa Road.
• Completed alternative route linking Idanre through Ijoka in Akure.

South Senatorial District

• Established the Ondo-Linyil Industrial Hub in Ore.
• Transformed the Okitipupa Bypass into a vital road serving the entire region.
• Launched the Redemption Bridge interchange in Ore, reducing accidents in the region.

Education and Health Sectors

• Renovated, rebuilt, or constructed almost 800 primary schools.
• Approved recruitment of teachers for primary schools.
• Impactful measures in the agricultural sector, promoting agribusiness.
• Subsidized top-quality tractors and cleared 1,500 hectares of land for farming.
• Revitalized Cocoa industry, resumed planting, and developed the largest Cocoa Estate.
• Operated the Idanre Chocolate factory and empowered Beekeepers.
• Initiated the building of a 500-bed complex with seven functional theatres in Ondo and Akure for the University of Medical Sciences.

Other Key Initiatives

• Bitumen exploration in Irele and advancement of the Deep-Sea Port project.
• Addressed climate change through afforestation projects in partnership with Wewood from China.
• Interstate road projects such as the Araromi-Lekki Road and the Gaga, Abusoro, and Oke-Ogba projects

Governor Akeredolu’s contributions to Ondo State have been pivotal for regional integration and development. Notably, initiatives like Bitumen exploration in Irele and the advancement of the Deep-Sea Port project played a crucial role in enhancing the financial capacity of Ondo. His government’s commitment to the Araromi-Seaside-Akodo-Lekki Road project, a N32 billion endeavor, fostered integration among Lagos, Ogun, and Ondo, contributing to the development of Southwest Nigeria. These accomplishments were instrumental in securing his re-election in 2021.

Beyond these achievements, Governor Akeredolu’s far-reaching success extended beyond state borders, prominently evident in the implementation of the regional security network code named Amotekun for the Southwest region. Facing challenges posed by marauding herders and other security threats in the region, Governor Akeredolu, as the Chairman of the Southwest Governors Forum, advocated for the establishment of Amotekun. Overcoming resistance from the federal government, Akeredolu’s political acumen and determination led to the successful establishment of this crucial security outfit. His unwavering stance on decentralizing security in Nigeria, coupled with efforts to legalize arms procurement by Amotekun, showcased his commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of his people and the region.

Amotekun in Ondo has achieved notable success, mirroring the accomplishments observed in other states within Southwest region where the security outfit is operational. The state’s success story includes the recruitment of thousands of personnel, the apprehension of around 1,000 suspects, active intervention in 515 herders/farmers clashes, and the successful prevention and resolution of 37 kidnapping incidents in 2021. The corps, in its operational tenure report from May 2020 to September 2021, impounded 26 cars and over 1,000 motorcycles, and addressed a total of 2,633 security related cases . In 2023, out of the 7,000 hoodlums apprehended, 1,500 were prosecuted, reflecting the effectiveness of Amotekun in maintaining law and order in the state and Southwest region at large.

Despite health challenges, Governor Akeredolu continued to make substantial contributions to Ondo’s progress. Notably, the state secured support from the World Bank, receiving 3.5 million Naira and $500,000 for rural road development. This funding, under the Rural Access and Marketing Project (RAAMP), emphasized Akeredolu’s commitment to holistic development. In addition,  under his administration, Ondo state strategically invested in cash crops, aiming to decrease the country’s reliance on oil. Akeredolu’s commitment to boosting cashew and oil palm production reflects a forward-thinking approach to economic diversification. Approximately N12 billion is annually allocated to the prevention and treatment of malaria in Ondo state, showcased Akeredolu’s commitment to public health improvement.

To solidify governance structures, Akeredolu’s administration signed into law the bill creating additional 33 Local Council Development Areas in the state. This strategic move is expected to enhance local governance, fostering development at the grassroots level. Governor Akeredolu’s achievements encompass infrastructure development, agricultural diversification, governance restructuring, and healthcare initiatives, contributing significantly to the overall progress of Ondo State.

Governor Akeredolu’s legacy is one of transformation, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the people of Ondo State. From his early days as a legal activist to his pinnacle as the Governor, he navigated challenges with grace, leaving an indelible mark on the socio-economic and political landscape.

His administration’s achievements in infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare, and security have not only elevated Ondo State and Southwest region but have also set a standard for governance in the country. Akeredolu’s foresight in championing regional security with Amotekun and his commitment to diversifying the economy through agriculture underscore his visionary leadership.

His legacy will inspire future leaders to approach governance with a blend of passion, resilience, and a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people. In the annal of Ondo and Southwest Nigeria’s history, Governor Akeredolu’s chapter will be remembered as a period of progress, innovation, and inclusive development.

May his gentle soul rest in peace!

References

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rotimi_Akeredolu

https://www.thecable.ng/obituary-from-law-to-politics-the-life-and-times-of-akeredolu

https://www.channelstv.com/2021/02/24/akeredolu-lists-achievements-vows-to-set-ondo-on-the-path-of-growth/

Ten things to know about late Ondo governor, Rotimi Akeredolu