The service of songs and night of tributes was on Monday held in honour of the late Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, took place on Monday, February 19, at Jogor Centre, Ibadan of Oyo state.
The update was given by the deceased governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Olatunde Richard, via his X handle on Monday, February 19.
The Service of Songs was organised in his honour at the Jogor Centre, Ibadan, Oyo State capital.
A former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, in his tribute at the event described Akeredolu as the commander-in-chief in defending the defenceless people of the Southwest, Nigeria.
He said, “His relentless advocacy for community policing has now gained widespread acceptance, transcending political affiliations.
“His greatest joy was serving the public good and building a united nation. He fearlessly spoke truth to power.”
His Chief Press Secretary listed dignitaries on the occasion to include the Ondo state governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa; Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Olamide Oladiji; Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Debo Ogundoyin, and his wife; Fayemi’s wife, Bisi.
Others are Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Ondo State chapter, Ade Adetimehin; members of the Ondo State House of Assembly; some members of the state executive council, and former members of the State Executive appointed by the late Akeredolu, led by former Secretary to the State Government, Oladunni Odu among others.
Other speakers at the event included a childhood friend of the late Governor for over 60 years, Dr Charles ‘Diji Akinola; Sir Biyi Adesanya; former Special Adviser to the late Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Mr Dare Aragbaiye; a family friend, Mr Ayo Sotirin; a friend and professional colleague, Prof. Wole Akintayo; Head of Chambers, Olujimi & Akeredolu Legal, Mr. Ibrahim Lawal among others.
Late Akeredolu died on December 23, 2023 at the age of 63.