Akeredolu Honoured as “One of Our Most Courageous Presidents” by NBA
Following a long illness, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, 67, passed away on Wednesday after a valiant fight with cancer. The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has extended condolences to his family and friends.
Akeredolu was “one of the most important and fearless presidents ever to lead the NBA,” according to a statement released by NBA president Yakubu Maikyau. He was the 24th president of the association, serving from 2008 to 2010.
“Aketi,” as he was affectionately known, was a real bar man who had faith in the power of law to improve our community. He was elected twice as governor of Ondo State, Nigeria, thanks to this conviction that propelled him into politics.
When it comes to issues of national importance, Aketi will primarily be known for his honesty and practical viewpoints.
His many outstanding contributions to the progress and prosperity of Ondo State and the surrounding area will live on in our memories. Aketi spearheaded the creation of Amotekun, a regional security network, to handle security issues in the western region while he was governor.
The network is now serving as an example for other regions to follow because of how well it has reduced the prevalence of violent crime in the area, including terrorism, armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, etc.
In October 2022, he was bestowed the national title of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) by the Federal Government of Nigeria in recognition of his services to Nigeria’s prosperity. The erudite Senior Advocate’s impact will be remembered forever, that much is certain,” the statement stated in part.
The NBA had Akeredolu on staff in multiple roles until he was called to the bar in 1978. Before becoming the 24th president of the association, he held the positions of secretary and vice chair of the Ibadan branch.
The esteemed Senior Advocate was a two-term governor from 2017 until his death in 2019, in addition to his previous roles as attorney general and commissioner for justice from 1997 to 1999.
The Ondo State administration reported that he passed away due to difficulties stemming from his long-term prostate cancer.