Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has praised the late former governor, Mr Rotimi Akeredolu, for his remarkable contributions to the judicial system in the state. Aiyedatiwa spoke at the special court session held in honor of the late governor at the state High Court headquarters, Akure, the state capital on Wednesday.
A champion of justice and law
Aiyedatiwa said that Akeredolu, who died in December 2023, would be remembered for strengthening the rule of law and fighting against crimes and criminalities. Also, he stated that Akeredolu supported the Multidoor Court System, improved the delivery of the Alternate Dispute Resolution system, and enhanced the welfare of judges and judicial officers.
“His drive for necessary and expeditious law-making was also commendable. He sponsored the Executive Bill for a law to establish the Ondo State Security Agency and Amotekun Corps, to assist in maintaining law and order in the state. His government also sponsored a bill for a law to provide for the establishment of the Ondo State Security Trust Fund,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He added that Akeredolu also initiated other bills to establish the Ondo State Agency against violence against women, the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Commission, and the Ondo State Independent Office of the Auditor-General.
A visionary leader and mentor
Aiyedatiwa described Akeredolu as a visionary leader and a mentor who inspired many people with his passion and dedication. He said that Akeredolu was a man of integrity, humility, and generosity, who always put the interest of the people first.
“He was a great son of Ondo State, a distinguished lawyer, a seasoned administrator, and a patriotic Nigerian. And he left a legacy of service, excellence, and impact that will never be forgotten,” Aiyedatiwa said.
In addition, Aiyedatiwa urged the judicial officers and staff to uphold the values and principles that Akeredolu stood for and to continue to dispense justice without fear or favor.
A tribute from the judiciary
The Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Oluwatoyin Akeredolu, also paid tribute to the late governor, saying that he was a friend and a supporter of the judiciary. She said that Akeredolu was instrumental in constructing and renovating several court buildings, providing vehicles and equipment, and appointing and promoting judges.
Justice Oluwatoyin Akeredolu said that Akeredolu was a man of courage, wisdom, and justice, who respected the independence and autonomy of the judiciary. Also, she said that the judiciary would always remember and appreciate his contributions and achievements.
However, the special court session was attended by judges, lawyers, traditional rulers, political leaders, and family members of the late governor. A minute of silence was observed in his memory, followed by prayers for his soul and his family.
The late Akeredolu was the governor of Ondo State from 2017 to 2023. He died on December 12, 2023, after a brief illness. He was 68 years old.
Source: Punch
