By Segun Giwa
Akure, Dec. 27, 2025 (NAN) – Two years after the passing of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, his successor, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, has paid a profound tribute, framing Akeredolu not just as a predecessor, but as a transformative figure whose principles continue to shape the state’s governance and Nigeria’s broader political discourse.
In a statement marking the solemn anniversary, Governor Aiyedatiwa described Akeredolu as a “visionary leader whose legacy continues to inspire good governance.” This commemoration moves beyond mere ceremony, serving as a moment to reflect on the concrete pillars of Akeredolu’s tenure.
The Architect of Amotekun: A Lasting Security Legacy
Aiyedatiwa highlighted Akeredolu’s most defining national contribution: his fierce advocacy for state policing and regional security. The governor noted that Akeredolu was the “foremost advocate” who played a “key role in mobilising South-West governors to establish the South-West Security Network, code-named Amotekun Corps.”
This was more than a policy initiative; it was a constitutional and political gambit that challenged the centralized federal security model. At a time of heightened insecurity, Akeredolu’s leadership in creating Amotekun provided a practical, community-centric blueprint for security. Aiyedatiwa asserted that these initiatives “redefined Nigeria’s subnational security architecture and laid the foundation for ongoing national conversations on decentralised and intelligence-led policing.” Indeed, the Amotekun model has since been studied and emulated in other regions, cementing Akeredolu’s role as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s security evolution.
Mentorship and Constitutional Succession: A Lesson in Stability
Perhaps more poignant for the current political moment was Aiyedatiwa’s reflection on Akeredolu’s philosophy of leadership and succession. He recalled their long political association, detailing how Akeredolu “consistently emphasised leadership, mentorship, succession planning, and institutional stability.”
This emphasis is particularly significant given that Aiyedatiwa, as Deputy Governor, succeeded Akeredolu upon his death—a process that, while constitutionally mandated, is not always smooth in Nigerian politics. By stating that Akeredolu “believed in orderly, constitutional succession” and “demonstrated a strong commitment to grooming future leaders,” Aiyedatiwa positions his own administration as a direct beneficiary and continuation of a planned legacy. “His trust and mentorship had a profound influence on my public service journey and shaped my leadership values,” Aiyedatiwa acknowledged, offering a rare public glimpse into the mentor-protégé relationship that underpins the state’s current stability.
Upholding the Ideals: Justice, Equity, and Unity
Moving from personal tribute to public pledge, Governor Aiyedatiwa affirmed that the state would honour Akeredolu’s memory by “upholding his ideals of justice, equity, and unity.” He pledged the government’s continued support for the foundation established by the Akeredolu family, ensuring the late governor’s work and name are immortalised through active, ongoing projects rather than static monuments.
“As government and people of Ondo State, we remember and honour Arakunrin Akeredolu… We celebrate his passion for development, advocacy for justice, equity, and unity,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
In his concluding remarks, Aiyedatiwa transformed the tribute into a call to action for residents, urging them to “draw inspiration from Akeredolu’s courage, service, and principled leadership, which continued to guide governance in Ondo State.” This framing elevates the anniversary from a look backward to a guiding post for the future, suggesting that the most fitting tribute is to embed Akeredolu’s core values into the fabric of the state’s ongoing development. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
GSD/AMM
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Edited by Abiemwense Moru
