In an heart-warming eulogy, President Bola Tinubu on Friday described late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu as a fearless soldier and an unwavering advocate for his people.
Tinubu made the statement during the funeral service for the late governor at St. Andrew’s Cathedral, Owo, Ondo State.
Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, commended Akeredolu’s “indomitable legacy of national service”.
The President said: “We are gathered here today to bid farewell to a remarkable soul, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Odunayo Akeredolu SAN, CON.”
He lauded Akeredolu’s courage, dedication, and his unwavering stance as “a fearless soldier for his people”, adding: “As we gather here today, we are confronted with one inexorable truth: seasons come and seasons go, much like the ebb and flow of our lives, and each of us shall go with the tides one after the other.
“We are also reminded that in this transient journey through life, we are but whispers in the wind.
“The parts of us that endure after we get to the end of our journey are the choices we make, and this moment is the ultimate confirmation of the noble paths trodden by our dear brother.”
Highlighting Akeredolu’s journey, from his distinguished legal career to his pivotal role as Governor of Ondo State, Tinubu lauded his vast knowledge and the profound impact of his leadership.
”There was no point in life where his voice shook in telling his truth. He was a vastly intelligent man whose passion has created quite a wide vacuum beyond this community,” he stated.
The President acknowledged Akeredolu’s commitment to serving through democratic means, noting that “he recognised that the most pragmatic path to serving humanity is to present ourselves willingly to be chosen by the people.”
Tinubu commended the “strength of character and conviction” of Akeredolu as well as the sacrifices he made to serve his community.
He added: “Today is a day of remembrance, a day to pay our respects, a day to reflect on the fact that our friend and brother served humanity to the best of his abilities.”
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The President urged the nation to cherish Akeredolu’s memory and the indomitable legacy he leaves behind, asserting that the “memories we hold dear will be a source of comfort in these difficult times.”
“May God, in His infinite mercy, repose Rotimi Akeredolu’s soul and bring solace to his loved ones,” he prayed.
