In a solemn ceremony held at the Government House, Alagbaka, Akure, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has been officially sworn in as the new Governor of Ondo State on Wednesday. This significant development transpired in the wake of the unfortunate demise of the former governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, aged 67, in Germany.
Rotimi Akeredolu’s battle with prostate cancer, a struggle he faced courageously, ultimately led to his passing. The state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mrs. Bamidele Ademola-Olateju, confirmed the sad news in a statement titled ‘It Is a sad day in Ondo State.’
Akeredolu had undertaken two separate medical vacations, the first on April 3, 2023, and the second on July 10, 2023. On September 7, he returned to the country and promptly notified the state House of Assembly about his health status.
The statement released by Mrs. Ademola-Olateju conveyed the heavy heart of the Ondo State Government, stating, “With a heavy heart, the Ondo State Government announces the passing of our beloved Governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON. Mr. Governor peacefully departed from this world in the early hours of today, Wednesday, December 27, 2023. This tragedy has left behind a profound void in our hearts.”
The statement further mentioned that a letter had been sent to President Bola Tinubu to officially inform him of the governor’s death. It expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his support during Akeredolu’s illness.
The Ondo State Government and the Akeredolu family plan to release further details regarding funeral arrangements to honor the memory of the late governor. The statement concluded by acknowledging Akeredolu’s extraordinary leadership, unwavering dedication to the state, and his role as a prominent advocate for the Southwest region and the nation. Despite the profound loss, there is solace in the knowledge that Akeredolu lived a purposeful life devoted to the service of God Almighty.