Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Senator representing Ondo Central Senatorial District, Adeniyi Adegbonmire, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, on what would have been his 70th birthday, describing him as "a tree that almost made a forest" whose uncommon courage and exceptional leadership continue to inspire generations. In a statement released on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, Adegbonmire lauded Akeredolu's enduring legacy, particularly his role in championing and institutionalising the Western Nigeria Security Network, codenamed Amotekun Corps, which he described as a watershed in regional security and community policing.
Describing the late governor as the "Amotekun Generalissimo," Adegbonmire said Akeredolu's 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. According to the senator, 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. "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," Adegbonmire said.
The lawmaker, who is also the senatorial candidate in the 2027 election, recalled Akeredolu's immense contributions to the legal profession, good governance, infrastructural development, and the socio-economic advancement of Ondo State, describing his life as one dedicated to service, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence. Adegbonmire prayed for the peaceful repose of the late governor's soul and urged the people of Ondo State to continue to honour his memory by upholding the values of courage, justice, selfless service, and love for humanity that defined his remarkable life. "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 posthumous 70th birthday, we celebrate an extraordinary leader whose impact will remain evergreen," he said.
Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria who served as Governor of Ondo State from 2017 until his death in December 2023, is remembered as a towering figure in Nigeria's legal and political landscape. His bold initiative in establishing the Amotekun security network remains one of his most significant contributions to regional security, reflecting his unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property across the South-West. The 70th posthumous birthday celebration has drawn tributes from across the state, with family members, friends, political associates, and well-wishers converging on Owo, Ondo State, to commemorate the life and legacy of the late governor with a special thanksgiving service. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa also paid tribute to his predecessor, describing Akeredolu as his leader, mentor, and a courageous statesman whose legacy continues to shape the state.
As Ondo State and the nation reflect on Akeredolu's enduring impact, Adegbonmire's tribute serves as a powerful reminder of a leader whose vision, courage, and integrity continue to inspire and guide the path toward principled governance and justice for all.
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