The senator representing Ondo South Senatorial District, Adeniyi Adegbomire, has paid tribute to the late former Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, describing him as “a tree that almost made a forest” as friends and associates marked his posthumous 70th birthday.
Akeredolu died on December 27, 2023, after a prolonged illness at the age of 67.
In a statement made available to journalists on Wednesday, Adegbomire described the late governor as a courageous leader whose contributions to democracy, security, and governance continue to inspire many.
He said Akeredolu’s role in establishing the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, remains one of his most enduring legacies.
“Late Akeredolu was the ‘Amotekun Generalissimo,’ whose courage, visionary leadership, and unwavering commitment to justice and the protection of lives and property earned him an enduring place in the history of Ondo State and Nigeria.
“Akeredolu was a rare statesman, a fearless defender of constitutional democracy, and a leader who stood firmly for the interests of his people irrespective of the odds. The late governor’s bold initiative in championing and institutionalizing the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, remains one of his greatest legacies and a watershed in community policing and regional security.
“Aketi was truly a tree that almost made a forest. His uncommon courage, conviction, and exceptional leadership inspired countless others to believe that principled governance is possible. His absence is still deeply felt, but his legacies continue to speak for him,” the senator said.
Adegbomire also commended Akeredolu’s contributions to the legal profession, infrastructural development, and the socio-economic growth of Ondo State.
“Though he is no longer with us, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu lives on through his enduring legacies, the institutions he built, and the countless lives he touched. On this 70th posthumous birthday, we celebrate an extraordinary leader whose impact will remain evergreen,” he added.
