The authorities of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, have received with deep sorrow and heavy heart, the news of the passing of Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu, CON, SAN, an esteemed alumnus of the University, and the Executive Governor of Ondo State until his demise.
A release by the Public Relations Officer of the University, Abiodun Olarewaju, stated that Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, Aketi, as he was fondly called, was an outstanding leader, a dedicated public servant, and a proud alumnus of Great Ife, who graduated with a Law degree in 1977.
Describing the late Governor as a man of vision and passion who, throughout his earthly journey, exemplified the values of excellence, leadership, and commitment to community service that Obafemi Awolowo University holds dear. His contributions to the University community were instrumental in shaping a legacy of academic achievement and civic responsibility.
After leaving OAU, Aketi pursued a remarkable career in Legal practice with a distinguishing focus on public service, at the law firm of Olujinmi & Akeredolu, which he co-founded with Chief Akin Olujinmi, a former Attorney-General and Minister for Justice of Nigeria.
Aketi’s outstanding law practice culminated, first, in his election as the president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in 2008 and later, twice, as the Executive Governor of his home-state, Ondo – the Sunshine state.
His tenure, which made him the 17th Governor, but 6th civilian, ran from 24th February 2017 until his sad passing on 27th December 2023, was marked by a steadfast commitment to the welfare of the people, economic development, and the promotion of education, equal rights, security of lives and property, and rule of law and justice.
The Vice Chancellor, therefore, extends the deepest condolences of the University Community to the bereaved family, friends and associates of the late Arakunrin Rotimi Akeredolu, particularly the Government and people of Ondo State. His passing is a great loss to our nation, and his memory will forever be etched in the annals of both the University and the state.
Professor Bamire then prays that the Lord will give the bereaved the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and grant the soul of the departed an eternal rest.
He added that: ” Our thoughts and prayers are with Dr. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, the spouse of our beloved Aketi, and his children during this difficult time.”
