Breaking News: Ondo Governor, Rotimi Akeredolu, Passes Away at 67
In a tragic turn of events, Rotimi Akeredolu, the former Governor of Ondo State, has succumbed to leukemia at the age of 67. The demise follows a reported failure to provide a dialysis machine, leaving the ailing governor without necessary medical aid on his deathbed.Akeredolu had returned to Nigeria in September after a three-month medical leave in Germany, battling leukemia, a form of blood cell cancer.
Concerns had risen in Ondo regarding his ability to govern from his sickbed, prompting calls for power transfer to his deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, or his resignation. The political tension was diffused by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who mediated the leadership crisis, resulting in Akeredolu ceding his gubernatorial duties to Deputy Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.Lucky Aiyedatiwa now stands as the acting Governor of Ondo State.
The news of Akeredolu’s passing has prompted reactions on social media, with well-wishers and critics expressing their condolences.Life & Legacy of Rotimi AkeredoluBorn on July 21, 1956, in Owo, Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu was a distinguished politician and attorney in Nigeria. A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), he served as governor from 2017 until his untimely demise on December 27, 2023.Akeredolu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, graduated in law from the University of Ife in 1977. His legal career included a notable tenure as Attorney General of Ondo State from 1997 to 1999, and he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1978.
Assuming office as the governor of Ondo State on February 24, 2017, Akeredolu’s unexpected death from leukemia complications has deeply saddened colleagues and admirers. He is survived by his wife, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, and their children, leaving behind a legacy marked by his contributions to law and politics in Nigeria.