Former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari have expressed their condolences following the demise of Ondo State Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. The late governor, aged 67, succumbed to prostate cancer after a prolonged battle.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Garba Shehu, President Buhari conveyed his grief, describing Akeredolu as a cherished friend and a towering figure in both law and politics. The president extended his sympathies to the late governor’s family, the government, the people of Ondo State, and the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Buhari stated, “I have lost a valued friend. I pray that his soul finds eternal peace. My thoughts are with the countless people who are inspired by his leadership in law and politics. My condolences to his family, the government and people of Ondo State, and to our party, the All Progressives Congress.”
In his tribute, former President Jonathan celebrated Akeredolu as a sincere patriot and legal luminary who prioritized equity, justice, and the collective peace of the nation over personal, political, and ethnic interests. Jonathan acknowledged Akeredolu’s significant contributions to democratic governance and his advocacy for constitutionalism, democracy, and good governance.
Jonathan’s condolence message, personally signed, stated, “Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu was a prominent lawyer and politician who helped shape democratic governance and promoted peace and development in Nigeria. As a lawyer, he was a sound and courageous legal luminary renowned for his advocacy for constitutionalism, democracy, and good governance.”
“He will be missed by many across the country and remembered for his forthrightness and acts of patriotism. I offer my condolences to his immediate family, especially his wife, Mrs. Betty Akeredolu, and the government and people of Ondo State and pray that God grants them the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”
