By Peter Omopo
Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has described the late former governor of the state, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu (SAN), as a visionary leader whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s evolving security architecture.
Aiyedatiwa made the remarks in a tribute marking the second anniversary of Akeredolu’s death, noting that the former governor’s advocacy for state policing and his role in the establishment of the South West Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, had redefined subnational security in the country.
In a statement issued on Saturday through the state government’s official social media platforms and website, the governor described Akeredolu as “a true statesman” whose leadership courage translated into decisive action at a critical period of growing security concerns nationwide.
“Two years ago, we bid a painful farewell to a true statesman, a visionary leader, and one of the champions of progressive governance – Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, SAN, CON, former Governor of Ondo State,” Aiyedatiwa said.
“His passing was a huge loss to Ondo State and Nigeria, but his legacy continues to inspire, motivate, and challenge us.”
The governor recalled Akeredolu’s strong push for decentralised policing, which led to the mobilisation of governors in the South-West to establish the Amotekun Corps to enhance security across the region.
According to him, Akeredolu’s stance on security was driven by his belief that governance must prioritise the safety of citizens, recalling his declaration that he would not “play politics with the lives of my people.”
Aiyedatiwa said the creation of Amotekun marked a significant shift in Nigeria’s internal security framework, describing it as a courageous intervention that redefined subnational security operations.
He added that the initiative has since gained broader national acceptance, with recent Senate resolutions aligning with the Federal Government’s reform agenda to decentralise policing and strengthen intelligence-led security, paving the way for constitutional and legislative support.
Beyond security reforms, the governor said Akeredolu’s leadership philosophy emphasised continuity, institutional stability and deliberate preparation of future leaders.
He noted that the late governor consistently spoke about leadership responsibility and succession during public addresses and official state engagements, including his address at the joint inauguration of elected officials in February 2021.
Marking the anniversary, Aiyedatiwa said the government and people of Ondo State were united in honouring Akeredolu’s contributions to security, governance and development.
“We celebrate his passion for development, enduring impacts, and advocacy for justice, equity and unity,” he said.
The governor also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to preserving Akeredolu’s legacy, pledging continued support for the foundation established by the Akeredolu family to immortalise his contributions.
He concluded by praying for the repose of the former governor’s soul and urged Ondo State residents to continue drawing inspiration from his life of courage, service and principled leadership.
