Oyo State governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, on Thursday, said that his administration will continue to create a conducive and an enabling environment for investors with great ideas to move the state forward irrespective of political affiliations or differences. The governor equally maintained that the state government would continue to encourage youths in the state, noting that the future of Nigeria rests on its youths. Governor Makinde stated this while commissioning the Omoluabi FM in Ibadan. He said that due to his administration’s commitment to creating an environment where businesses can thrive, the number of radio stations he met on the ground has nearly tripled. The governor added that his government has been able to build a modern Oyo State, which has attracted more investors and businesses in major corridors of the state. He said: “In the past three weeks, this is the second radio station that we will be declaring open. On the 27th of December, I declared open the Dynasty FM Station in Oyo, owned by the Ajisafes. And today, we are declaring Omoluabi 87.7 FM open. “When this administration came in, we met roughly 20 radio stations and we have moved to almost triple of the number we met on ground. “One unique thing about this place is the youthful members of staff and management. It is extremely important to us and it is an opportunity for you guys to set the tone. “I started my business at the age of 29 and I have been paying salaries rather than receiving since then. I am now 56. So, it is an avenue for you to prove that the future of Nigeria, indeed, is the youthful population, because you have the energy and the intellect. So, in Oyo State, we will continue to encourage our youths.” The governor lauded the founder of the radio station, a former Minister of Youth and Sports, Chief Sunday Dare, for the heavy investments in the business, stating that his government would continue to encourage investors. He added that the state government would provide adequate security and lighting around the area. According to Governor Makinde, political differences should not be allowed to affect businesses negatively. He urged political loyalists to embrace peace and stop creating political wars among the politicians, stressing that no politicians is worth dying for. “I am glad to be here to support my brother and it has nothing to do with politics. “We will continue to create a conducive atmosphere where we can all interact irrespective of party affiliations. Government and players will come and go but our state will remain.” Speaking earlier, Chief Dare thanked the governor and the government for their support while setting up the radio station and equally for embracing privatisation. Earlier in his welcome address, the General Manager of the radio station, Mr Stephen Adedigba, said the station is a youth-driven initiative and that it would uphold integrity. The event had in attendance a former deputy governor of Oyo State, Chief Moses Alake Adeyemo; former Speakers of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Akin Onigbinde (SAN) and Rt. Hon. Asimiyu Niran Alarape; Secretary to the State Government, Professor Olanike Adeyemo; Head of Service, Mrs Bunmi Oni, and commissioners, among other top government functionaries. Source: Sulaimon Olanrewaju Special Adviser (Media) to Oyo State Governor January 11, 2024.
The Western Nigeria Security Network, also known as Amotekun, on Tuesday arrested two persons in connection with digging of a grave and removal of a fresh human head from a graveyard in Saki, Oyo State.
Saki is a town in Oke Ogun geo-political zone in the State.
We gathered that one of the suspects went to the graveyard on Monday evening to dig the grave and remove the head of the deceased buried on the same day.
His accomplice, who sent A source in the town who spoke with Newsmen on Wednesday said that the perpetrators live in Oba Abimbola layout in Saki.
“The perpetrators live at Oba Abimbola layout, off Ogboro Road, Saki
“The middle-aged man was apprehended by Amotekun with the possession of two human heads
“It happened yesterday afternoon. Watch the video for further information on the accomplices,” he said.
State Commandant of Amotekun, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (rtd) confirmed the arrest of the suspects to newsmen on Wednesday.
“It is true. Yes it is true,” he said in a telephone chat.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Wednesday, January 10, 2024 arraigned a former Minister of Power and Steel Development, Olu Agunloye before Justice J.O Onwuegbuzie of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, High Court, Apo, Abuja.
He was arraigned on seven count charges bordering on fraudulent award of contract and official corruption.
One of the count reads: “That you, Olu Agunloye, whilst being the Minister of Power and Steel on or about the 22nd of May, 2003 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court awarded a contract, titled “Construction of 3,960mw Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Station on a Build, Operate and Transfer Basis” to Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited without any budgetary provision, approval and cash backing and you thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 22(4) of the Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Act, 2000.”
Another count reads: “That you, Olu Agunloye, on or about the 10th of August, 2019 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this honourable court, corruptly received the sum of Three Million Six Hundred Thousand Naira (N3,600,000.00) through your Guaranty Trust Bank account no.0022530926 from Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited (SPTCL) and Leno Adesanya for having conveyed the “approval of the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for the construction of the 3,960 megawatts Mambilla Hydroelectric Power Station” in favour of SPTCL which you did whilst serving as the Minister of Power and Steel without the approval of the Federal Executive Council contrary to and punishable under Section 8(1)(a) and (b) of the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000.”
He pleaded “not guilty” to all the charges when they were read to them.
Thereafter, prosecution counsel, Abba Muhammed prayed the court for a trial date and to remand the defendant in a Correctional Centre. Defence counsel, Adola Adedipe, SAN, informed the court that he has filed a bail application for the defendant and prayed the court to grant him bail and commit him to the custody of the EFCC.
Justice Onwuegbuzie ruled that the defendant be remanded in Kuje Correctional Centre and set Thursday, January 11, 2024 for hearing on the bail application.
The 2024 Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant subcommittee of the Central Planning Committee of Ibadan Cultural Festival has announced the sales of form for Orekelewa Brain and Beauty Pageant competition, as part of the activities of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival activities.
Ibadan daughters within the age of 18 and 27years are eligible to apply for the form for N10,000 only. According to the committee, the competition is exclusively for Ibadan indigenes(daughters) within the ages of 18 and 27 years who are either in tertiary institutions or graduates and fit within that age range.
The committee further stated that the star prize for the first position is a big deep freezer, 1st runner up, a standard washing machine, and 2nd runner up, a smart TV, while other contestants will be given consolation prizes worth thousands of naira.
To obtain the form kindly reach out to the following numbers; 08051926026, 07032566464, as prospective candidate(s) do not necessarily have to visit Ibadan House, as forms can be obtained online by calling the numbers above and making payment to the designated account.
For further information, kindly read the flier attached to this post or call the numbers above.
Happy New Year to a wonderful parliamentarian says Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola.
It is another magical occasion when the entire humanity gives praise to God for the benefit of finishing the race of an expired year and the beginning of the race to a new year. In the process, one will slow down to assess the past year in preparation for a new year race. The challenges, the opportunities, the blessings and unexpected favor in comparison to losses or near misses. For all of these, one cannot but give praise to Allah. To almighty God we return all praises for the benefit of seeing another beautiful year 2024. Along these journeys, Honourable Musiliu Olaide Adewale Akinremi Jagaban has demonstrated a great sense of service, generosity and exemplary support to his constituency and beyond. An uncommon attribute which placed him over and above all the previous parliamentarians representing the Ibadan North Federal Constituency. The records are there to be challenged. I doubt if Ibadan North Federal Constituency has ever had it this good. On this note, I want to encourage this humble servant of the masses not to relent in his charitable efforts in delivering dividends of democracy to his people within and afar. The good Lord will never cease his blessings on you and people are praying fervently for your success in and out of office. As we go into the new year, many others who are expecting to benefit from your series of meaningful empowerment programs should be adequately captured in the net of potential beneficiaries to be empowered. God will empower you to do more and serve your people beyond expectations. I wish you, your family, the entire Ibadan North Federal Constituency , the state at large and the entire nation-Nigeria a happy new year full of blessings and divine grace. Congratulations and Happy New Year.
Message of Hope, appeal for solidarity and rebuilding the association.
Let it be known that our living to witness the advent of a New Year is the highest privilege and blessing from God. For this grace, let us all give praises and adoration to our creator. We pray to witness many more years in fulfilment and realisation of our dreams.
The recently expired year 2023 is one that Grammarians will remember as a year of many achievements, yet of grievous losses. A year of accomplishments and sacrifices.
For the year 2024 beginning today, let us be steadfast in prayers and renewed Hope for a more blessed future. In doing this, I want to appeal for solidarity aimed at rebuilding a stronger Association. A formidable IGSOSA family in support of our alma mater.
Under the leadership of President David Oladimeji Mako, a long list of remarkable progress and achievements were recorded in 2023 despite the shortness of his regime.
2023 AIONIAN SPORTS AND ACADEMIC FESTIVAL tagged OLUYOLE 2023 was hosted by our school which was fully funded through massive donations from the Old Students and without a dime from the State government.
The 110 Founder’s Day and AGM celebration was held where 110 Mountaineers received different levels of signature awards.
Many Branches and Class Sets laudable projects were commissioned for the benefit of the school with particular mention of a multi-million naira ITC standard Tennis court donated by Mr. Abiodun Opawole of the 81/86 Class Set.
Centenary Book, a compendium of the entry of all old students since inception till year 2023 was launched.
Many indigent students were sponsored for their final examinations and some received scholarships to further their education in various tertiary institutions.
The administrative block was renovated by Class Set 69-73/75, while the Old School Hall was renovated by Class Set 1990/1995
Valedictory lecture, retirement from the University of Ibadan service and from Priesthood of Professor (Venerable) Kolawole Timothy Jaiyeoba was celebrated along his 70th birthday.
Dr. Mich. Adeniyi Adenuga (S/N 4396) CSG, GCON. 70th birthday was celebrated.
Our Chairman Registered Board of Trustees, Dr. Olorogun. Goodie Minnabo Ibru OON, DSc at 81 was celebrated.
Mr. Akinniyi Aboderin at 70th was celebrated .
The Constitution Review Committee was inaugurated
The School Hostel Renovation Committee was inaugurated.
Valedictory service of outgoing Senior Secondary School students was conducted and admitted into the IGSOSA family
Professor Oladapo Afolabi CFR an IGSOSA Trustee (S/N 6340) at 70th was celebrated.
Two of our icons, Chief Tunji Amole and Professor K.T. Jaiyeoba, both Pharmacists, former National Presidents and BoT members received Living Legend Awards by the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria PSN, Oyo State Chapter The list was endless and inexhaustible. As we count our gains, so also we count our losses.
In the same year 2023, we recorded some losses too many to mention but we give glory to God almighty.
Chief Mrs Christiana Adetayo Sulu, wife of our dear Papa Engineer Saidi Sulu passed on at the age of 85 on 5th May, 2023.
Chief Mrs Beatrice Ajoke Ige , a formidable Home Economics Teacher and mother of our prominent IGSOSA UK Bankole Ige passed on at age 87.
Mrs Adewale Amole, mother of our leader and Trustee, Chief Tunji Amole passed on at a very ripe age.
Pa Olatunde Adeniji (S/N 2668) of Class Set 51/56 passed on.
Mrs Josephine Ademola Taiwo a Junior School Business Studies Teacher passed on.
The first Professor of Geology in Africa, Professor Mosobalaje Oyawoye (S/N 2371) of 1947/1949 HSC passed on at 96 years.
Chairman of IGSOSA Foundation, Mr. Bankole Ademulegun (S/N 5054) of Class Set 67-71/73 passed on at 70 years.
Pa Chief Tunji Ajiboso 1944-1948, the oldest living Grammarian at the time of his passage aged 96.
The Nigerian Flag designer and an old Student, Mr. Taiwo Akinkunmi OFR (S/N 2650) Class Set 51-56, passed on.
Olayemi Onakunle of the 2001-2007 class set (S/N 22195) died in Aberdeen, Scotland while doing his PhD.
Sadly, the IGSOSA 12th National President, Mr. David Oladimeji Mako died on 22 October, 2023.
Following the sudden transition of President Mako, the mantle of leadership of the association fell on me and I was sworn-in by the Registered Board of Trustees Secretary, Mr. Ade Adedeji SAN on the 1st November, 2023.
The challenge of planning and organising a befitting and deserving Send Forth ceremony and immortalising President Dimeji Mako was rested on my shoulder. To the glory of God and the support of all the great Mountaineers worldwide, a week-long funeral activities was sponsored through huge voluntary donations and active participation from members far and near, while a sum of ten million naira was donated towards the Perimeter Fencing Project in honour of President Mako as the key project of his hearts. This is a landmark way to immortalise a great leader.
So far, the Balogun Gaphar Ojetola led administration with the promise and assurances to carry on from where Mako left aimed at following the true legacy of building a strong association in supporting the school has recorded these since emergence.
8th Emmanuel Alayande Memorial Distinguished Alumni Lecture and Food Exhibition. The hall packed memorial lecture was delivered by our leader and erudite Professor Charles Oguguah Aworh, the Most Distinguished Friend of Ibadanland (MDFI) and graciously attended amongst other important dignitaries by, His Royal Highness Oba Professor Alexander Olusegun McGregor the Olu of Orile Ilawo, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Chairman of the Lecture Organising committee was our respected , Professor Babajide Elemo and his team of egg-heads.
The Annual Prize Giving Day experienced improved and expanded categories of awards and prizes as sponsored by the Old Students worldwide. Cash prizes and various materials awards worth about five million naira were committed by individual, class set, branches and family sponsors at this year occassion.
The Patriach of the famous Olubi family and father of two of our prominent Old Students, Pa. Engineer Dotun Olubi passed on at 95. May their souls rest in perfect peace. Amen
The IGSOSA NEC and family were represented by the National President and National Treasurer during the Christmas visit to the wife and family of President David Oladimeji Mako.
Chief Mrs Jokotade Oni of Lagos chapter and Class Set 67-71/73, a great philanthropy and supporter of the association celebrated her 70th birthday in grand style. The association was well represented and gift presented.
The Perimeter Fencing Project received her first donation of One million naira from Class Set 72/76 MCN. This was followed by another Two million naira from Class Set 67-71/73
The Perimeter Fence Project passionate appeal:
The Ibadan Grammar School lands and property is highly porous to threats of invasion, vandalisation and land grabbing by unscrupulous elements in the society. We have the responsibility to protect our alma mater, especially when the government is doing absolutely nothing in this regard. The Old Students, in their traditions and giving back cultures has committed hundreds of millions of projects for the school benefit however, these infrastructures are constantly invaded, destroyed and stolen times without numbers. The initiative to fence the entire school compound has been on for a very long time and we should make concerted efforts to achieve this life time landmark project for our alma mater. It is a task that must be done, with all your support.
To our individual colleagues, please support and donate to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
To our Class Sets, please support and donate to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
To our Branches and Chapters, please support and donate to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
To corporate organisations and philanthropists, please support and donate generously to this Perimeter Fencing Project.
I pray that God enrich and bless you beyond human comprehension as you donate generously towards the project of our hearts. Amen and God bless you.
The dedicated account to donate: Ibadan Grammar School Old Students Association Foundation FCMB: 1007394180
Or call Mr. George Thorpe on +234809921388 Chairman, Class Set Representatives and Chairman Perimeter Fencing Project.
In the New Year 2024, we plan to have :
1.a one day of remembrance for all our departed souls with prayers to God to repose their souls and protect us all.
2.The tradition of celebrating our Founder’s Day will be adequately observed.
3.Efforts will be committed to strengthen understanding and cooperation amongst all the Grammarians and various interest groups.
The AIONIAN SPORTS Festival will be held at Ijebu-Ode this year and our School Team will need your support and funding. Pre-events activities has long commenced.
A full line up activities will be released along the budget for the whole year.
On behalf of the National Executive Council and the Registered Board of Trustees of the IGSOSA, permit me to register our profound appreciation to all who supported and continue to support our programs in the past years and the coming years.
Thanks and God bless you all. May the new year bring us peace, tranquility, everlasting joy and immense wellness.
Deo et patriae
Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola IGSOSA NATIONAL PRESIDENT
The Chairman of the Association of Professional Retired Nurses and Midwives of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Balogun Gaphar Babatunde Ojetola in his Chairman’s address at the just celebrated 2023 Christmas and End of the Year event which was held at the Asiwaju Bode Amao Hall, Ibadan House Oke Àrèmo Yemetu Ibadan on the 28th December, 2023 appealed to all Nigerians to welcome the new year with love, peace and positive energy.
He encourage the members of the association to live in the fantasy world of the children -a world where everything was just simple and beautiful. A life that knew no negativity, a lifetime where we believed in Santa and the good tidings of Christmas, a world of peace, the world of children.
“It is again, that time of the year when everyone old and young, rich and poor, elite and not, healthy and not so healthy; despite their numerous challenges spare a few moments/ days to reflect on the goodness of God in their lives and remember to be thankful despite all their odds.”
“This is one magical time of the year when people, no matter the hardships and difficult hand life have dealt with them, still look up to the heavens, smile and say ‘aaye ope yo’.” “A day to spread cheer and positive vibes only; hopefully with enough positive energy to charge us all into the new approaching year and perhaps, keep us powered throughout 2024.” He continued, “Let me say importantly, that I consider it a big honor to stand before you today, as your friend, your Chairman , and brother in faith, to celebrate this jolly season”.
“Obviously, we no longer live in the fantasy world we all did as children- where everything was just simple and beautiful. A life that knew no negativity, a lifetime where we believed in Santa and the good tidings of Christmas”. “Permit me to plead with you however, that once in a while, recline into this world of fantasy, a world of peace, the world of children. There are many things that should prevent us from being thankful or even happy in this season…se ti economy ni k’a wi, abi Owó ti ko si ni banki?” “However, despite the full understanding of all the problems that surround us, we also need to be conscious of the things we cannot change, and how that affects our mental health which is key at this point in life”.
So, live as a child every once in a while. “What does it take to live as a child? Be carefree sometimes, see the good in everything sometimes, laugh, smile for no reason, spread cheer for no reason…LOVE even when there is no reason to do so.” “May I point out again, as I have done severally, that love should transcend all, inclusive of religion…and it is for the love of love, that we put aside all differences today, to come together under one roof and jolly together.” “It is my utmost wish that if there be dispute amongst us or in the hearts of anyone here, let us remember love this day, and let go of any grudges.” “May I use this great opportunity, being my first official engagement as your newly elected Chairman to commend you all for your believing and trusting in my executive and for supporting each and every activities of this administration. We solicit for your continuous support aimed at fostering a formidable association and delivering on all our promises. We will not disappoint you.” He eulogised the Chairman of the occasion , an Emeritus Professor Mrs Funmilayo Ojo, a Professor of Nursing and Dean of Faculty at the Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti whom he described as a great mother and beacon of light for nurses in Nigeria and beyond.
Balogun Ojetola commended the Special Guest of Honour of the ocassion who is also the President General Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes Chief, Barrister Sulaiman Ajeniyi Ajewole whom God has used to resuscitate the long abandoned New Olubadan Palace project which is near completion , a great achievement made within six months of assuming office. He said to Ajewole, “Ile Ibadan ko ni gbagbe Re laelae”. Balogun Ojetola eulogised the Chairman, Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State who was represented at the ocassion by the Director of Research, Statistics and Training, Mrs Adebowale and the BCOS technical crews for the coverage and television reporting. The ministration and exhortation at the event was conducted by Venerable Oyewusi, Archdeacon, LUKAN ARCHDEACONERY, Ibadan South Diocess after the first Bible reading was taken by Pastor Gabriel Kola Ajeigbe. The Oyo State Director of Nursing Services, Dr. Mrs Oyebode commended the association while delivering her goodwill message. The DNS urged the government to expedite actions on clamping down on quack nurses being trained by some unscrupulous doctors and nurses. She submitted that quack nurses have claimed many lives and will continue to cause damages to the ignorant population. Dr. Mrs Gbonjubola Owolabi , the Provost Oyo State College of Nursing , Eleyele supported the DNS in the campaign against auxiliary nursing in the state and in Nigeria generally. She condemned medical doctors and some unscrupulous professional nurses who engaged themselves in training quack nurses. She challenged the practice as illegal, unprofessional and detrimental to the wellness of the entire population. President General Ajeniyi Ajewole in his goodwill message felicitates with the association for the beautiful End of the Year Celebration which was jointly celebrated by both Muslim and Christian members. He expressed satisfaction on the conduct of the program giving credit to Balogun Ojetola whom he appraised very highly of immense capacity. He congratulated the association for having Balogun Gaphar Ojetola as their Chairman who at the same time is the Chairman , 2024 Ibadan Cultural Festival Planning Committee and the National President of the Ibadan Grammar School Old Students Association world wide. He prayed that Allah will continue to empower Ojetola in all his huge assignments. Other numerous dignitaries at the event took turns in delivering their good will messages. The ceremony experienced a Christmas Bonanza where cash gifts, packs of rice and detergents were won by more than two hundred participants. All the kind donors were highly appreciated for making this first of its kind event in the history of the association an unprecedented success which credit was duly given to the highly dedicated and hardworking members of the planning committee members. The 2023 Christmas and End of the Year Celebration Planning Committee members are Mrs Olufunke Janet Fatunmbi who is the Chairman Planning Committee and the association Secretary General, Chief Mrs Bolanle Ajuwon, the association Social Secretary, Mrs Sarah Adisa, the Welfare Secretary, Chief Oyedeji Akintunde, Evangelist Mrs Kayode, Mrs Funke Ladapo, Mrs Florence Baba, Chief Mrs Okediran who is also the association Vice Chairman and Balogun Gaphar Ojetola. Apex Nurses from the Adeoyo Maternity and Specialist Hospital, Ring Road State Hospital and Jericho Hospitals were at the occasion and donated generously. All the Executive members of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes and members of staff of Ibadan Grammar School participated actively at this ocassion. Bola Sunshine and her musical group was on stage with praise and worship music throughout the program while members, friends and families danced to their satisfaction. The event was covered freely by the crews from the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State , courtesy of the corporation Chairman while photography was covered by Mrs Mary Olufunke Akinade. Mrs Margaret Olubunmi Akinsola was the Director of Programs at this occasion. Wishing all the donors and members generally abundant blessings and compliments of the season.
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji has declared three days of mourning for Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, SAN, the late Governor of Ondo State who passed on December 27th.
Arakunrin Akeredolu was until his death the Chairman of the Southern Governors Forum and South West Governors Forum.
Governor Oyebanji, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode on Friday, declared the three- day state mourning.
All flags at public buildings across the state are to be flown half- mast for the three days of mourning, which commenced on Friday.
Meanwhile, Governor Oyebanji, who had earlier conveyed his condolences to the Government and people of Ondo State, paid a condolence visit to the family of the late Akeredolu at their Ibadan residence on Friday.
No fewer than three inmates of the Ijebu Ode Correctional Home in Ogun State have escaped from the facility.
Oduduwa News reports that the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Correctional Service, in the state, Victor Oyeleke, confirmed the jailbreak in a statement on Tuesday.
Oyeleke disclosed that the incident happened early Saturday morning, around 3 am, stressing that the command would liaise with other sister agencies to find the inmates.
He said: “Yes, it is confirmed, it happened in the early hours of Saturday morning around 3 am. A search party to bring the three of them back has been raised. We have their biometrics and we have contacts of their families.
“We are working together with other sister agencies, and in good time, they will be brought back.”
Meanwhile, another statement from Ijebu Imushin Area Command of So-Safe Corps, which had since gone viral, also confirmed the jailbreak.
The statement reads: “The report reaching us now is that three prisoners escaped from the Ijebu-Ode Correctional Center whose names are, Hammed Adeboyejo who was convicted of Murder/Armed Robbery; Fatai Taiwo Akande from Ijebu-Igbo was sentenced on Murder Casez while the third man, Oguntona Aliu was convicted of Sexual Offence, should in case you see any of them, quickly contact the office of So-Safe Corps Command closer to you, The Nigerian Police and any other Security Agency.”
It is a difficult task to have to pen a tribute and sing a dirge for a departing soul. It is a more difficult job in our African culture when one is compelled to do so for a younger person. Here I am with the difficult job of singing a dirge for Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, my beloved brother, confidant, political soulmate and governor of Ondo State.
I cannot fairly capture in words Rotimi’s towering figure and his human essence. Rotimi was a man who moved our nation towards equity, fairness and justice in his strident advocacy against every form of injustice in our country through the instrumentality of the law as a senior advocate, attorney general of his beloved state, as President of the Nigerian Bar Association and Governor of Ondo State.
In a challenging moment of our statehood when marauding agents of darkness spread their tentacles across our country, Rotimi was a strong voice in wilderness calling us to rethink our security architecture so we can have a more secure nation. His unrelenting advocacy led to the birth of the local police in the South West.
Rotimi was a man of ideas and action. While he was with us, he taught us the power of action and service. In Ondo State where he had the honour to serve as the Governor in the last 6 years, he served his people with absolute loyalty, dedication and forthrightness. His footprints dot the entire landscape in the hundreds of kilometres of roads he built, the many school he built and healthcare facilities that he provided. During the dark hours when marauding agents of darkness visited the state and killed defenceless citizens where 40 worshippers of the Catholic Church of Owo were killed on June 5, 2022, Rotimi’s leadership qualities as a true statesman and compassionate leader radiated brightly to the world. He was a mourner-in-chief who guided his people through an agonising period. Today, I MOURN a fighter and fearless defender of truth and the masses.
My personal journey with Rotimi started as joint members of the progressive family. We fought many battles together to restore progressive governance in the South West, Edo State and Nigeria as a whole. During this uncertain period, Rotimi was resolute and unflinching. He showed uncommon courage as member of our legal team in our battles to reclaim our stolen mandates in Ekiti, Ondo, Edo and Osun States. A gallant lawyer and one of the finest of the legal profession. I beckoned on him to contest for the governorship position of Ondo State in 2012. Even though he didn’t make it in first attempt his enthusiasm and determination to serve his people never diminished. He eventually made it to the Alagbaka Government House in his second attempt in the 2016 election, Since he was sworn-in in February 2017, he had served the people with devotion.
Rotimi has played his role well and left us untimely. We will never see his likes again. Let me tell the people of Ondo State that I am grieving with you. We will honour Rotimi’s memory and make sure his legacy of service is never forgotten.
In my grief and sadness, I have telephoned his wife, Betty, and Acting Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to commiserate with them and urge them to take heart over this national tragedy.
Governor Akeredolu was not just a friend, ally and associate, he was a brother and soulmate.
His death is a blow to our governing APC and the progressive family as we are diminished by it.
I hope that his successor Aiyedatiwa will hold steadfast to the vision of governance left by this towering political leader.
