Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu

Early Life and Background

Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu was born on July 21, 1956, in Owo, a historic town in Ondo State, Nigeria. His father was Reverend J. Ola Akeredolu of Owo, and his mother was Lady Evangelist Grace B. Akeredolu of Igbotu, Ese Odo, Ondo State. Raised in a devout Christian home, Akeredolu's early life was marked by discipline and a strong emphasis on education and moral values. He began his formal education at Government Primary School, Owo, where he received his foundational learning. His secondary education journey took him through two notable institutions: Aquinas College, Akure, and later Loyola College, Ibadan. These formative years instilled in him a robust sense of academic rigor and leadership qualities that would later define his public life.

Education

Akeredolu's pursuit of higher education led him to the prestigious University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife, where he studied Law. He earned his Bachelor of Laws (LLB Hons) degree in 1977, demonstrating exceptional academic prowess throughout his legal studies. Following his graduation, he proceeded to the Nigerian Law School, an essential step for aspiring legal practitioners in Nigeria. In 1978, he was called to the Nigerian Bar, officially commencing his distinguished career in the legal profession. His legal education laid the groundwork for his eventual rise to become a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, the highest rank for legal practitioners in the country.

Career

Rotimi Akeredolu's career was a blend of profound legal practice and impactful political service. After being called to the bar in 1978, he embarked on private legal practice, quickly establishing himself as a formidable advocate. He co-founded the law firm Olujinmi & Akeredolu with Chief Akin Olujinmi, who later served as Nigeria's Attorney General and Minister for Justice. His legal expertise and dedication were recognized when he was conferred with the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 1997, a testament to his exceptional contributions to the legal profession. This honor placed him among the elite legal practitioners in Nigeria.

His foray into public service began with his appointment as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Ondo State, a position he held from 1997 to 1999. In this role, he championed judicial reforms and worked to strengthen the rule of law within the state. Akeredolu's influence extended beyond state-level politics; he was a prominent figure within the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), serving as its President from 2008 to 2010. During his tenure as NBA President, he advocated for judicial independence, legal reforms, and improved welfare for lawyers.

Akeredolu's political ambition to lead Ondo State surfaced in 2012 when he contested the governorship election under the platform of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), though he was unsuccessful. Undeterred, he made another bid for the governorship in 2016, this time under the banner of the All Progressives Congress (APC). He emerged victorious, securing a significant mandate from the people of Ondo State. He was sworn in as the Governor of Ondo State on February 24, 2017. His performance in his first term earned him re-election in October 2020, and he was sworn in for his second term on February 24, 2021, a testament to his popularity and perceived effectiveness as a leader.

Major Achievements

As Governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu spearheaded numerous initiatives and projects that significantly impacted the state's development. One of his most notable achievements was his pivotal role in the establishment of the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun Corps. This regional security outfit was formed to address the growing insecurity challenges, particularly banditry and kidnapping, across the South-West states. Akeredolu's unwavering commitment to the Amotekun initiative demonstrated his dedication to protecting the lives and property of his people, often taking a firm stance even when it meant challenging federal positions.

Under his administration, Ondo State witnessed considerable infrastructural development. Key projects included the construction of the Ore Interchange and flyover, which significantly eased traffic congestion and improved connectivity within the state. His government also embarked on extensive road construction and rehabilitation across urban and rural areas, enhancing transportation and facilitating economic activities. In the industrial sector, Akeredolu attracted investments, leading to the establishment of the Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub, which facilitated the creation of new factories and generated employment opportunities for the state's residents.

Furthermore, his administration prioritized education and healthcare. He initiated reforms to revitalize the education sector, improving school infrastructure and ensuring better welfare for teachers. In healthcare, he focused on upgrading facilities and improving access to quality medical services for the citizens. Akeredolu was also known for his commitment to workers' welfare, ensuring prompt payment of salaries and pensions, which fostered a harmonious relationship between the government and its workforce.

Personal Life

Rotimi Akeredolu was a devoted family man. In 1978, he married Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, an accomplished entrepreneur, philanthropist, and advocate for women's health, particularly breast cancer awareness. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, originally from Imo State, was a strong partner and supporter throughout his career. Together, they raised four children: Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jnr, Yejide Akeredolu, Babajide Akeredolu, and Ilesanmi Akeredolu. His family life was often kept private, but he frequently acknowledged the support and strength he drew from his wife and children. Towards the end of his life, his prolonged battle with prostate cancer became a public concern, leading to periods of medical leave from his gubernatorial duties.

Legacy

Rotimi Akeredolu's legacy is multifaceted, encompassing his contributions to the legal profession, his impactful tenure as Governor of Ondo State, and his principled stand on national issues. As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and former President of the NBA, he left an indelible mark on Nigeria's legal landscape, championing justice and the rule of law. His leadership in the formation of the Amotekun Corps solidified his image as a courageous and pragmatic leader committed to regional security and decentralization of power. He was a vocal proponent of true federalism, advocating for greater autonomy for states and local governments.

In Ondo State, he is remembered for his significant strides in infrastructure development, industrialization, and improvements in the education and health sectors. His administration's focus on attracting investments and creating jobs contributed to economic growth and improved living standards for many. Akeredolu was known for his bluntness, integrity, and unwavering commitment to his convictions, often speaking truth to power. His death on December 27, 2023, in Germany, after a prolonged illness, marked the end of an era for Ondo State and a significant loss to Nigerian politics. He is remembered as a leader who dared to challenge the status quo, leaving behind a legacy of courage, development, and a fervent belief in the potential of his people and his nation.