President Bola Tinubu Pays Condolence Visit to Late Governor Akeredolu’s Family in Owo
Date: Wednesday, February 29, 2024
In a heartfelt gesture, President Bola Tinubu, accompanied by Baba Bisi Akande and Chief Pius Akinyelure, visited Owo on Wednesday to express his condolences to the family of the late Governor of Ondo State, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, CON. The President was warmly received by the widow of the late Governor, Chief Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu.
During his visit, President Tinubu held a closed-door meeting with Mrs. Akeredolu and also paid his respects at the final resting place of the late Governor. Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and his deputy, Chief Olayide Adelami, were also present at the Akeredolu’s residence.
President Tinubu had previously paid tribute to Akeredolu after his passing in December 2023, describing him as a fighter and fearless defender of truth and the masses. The President referred to Akeredolu as a brother, confidant, and political soulmate.
At the Akeredolu’s residence, President Tinubu extended his condolences to the widow, the late Governor’s children, and siblings. Among the family members present were Akeredolu’s first son, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu Jnr; Dr. Teni Micheal and her husband, Olatunde Micheal; Mrs. Yejide Rusewe, Esq, and her husband, Engr. Lakunle Rusewe; and Babajide Akeredolu. Akeredolu’s siblings, Prof. Wole Akeredolu and Toyin Akeredolu, were also in attendance. Engr. Ade Adetimehin, the Chairman of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the state, joined the family during the meeting.
Expressing her gratitude, Mrs. Akeredolu thanked President Tinubu for the condolence visit. She acknowledged that the President was unable to attend the burial ceremony due to Yoruba cultural customs but emphasized the significance of his presence on that day. Mrs. Akeredolu also expressed deep appreciation to the Southern Governors for their generous financial contributions to the burial, particularly highlighting the efforts of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who played a pivotal role in repatriating Akeredolu’s remains to Nigeria.
In her conversation with President Tinubu, Mrs. Akeredolu conveyed her belief that although her husband had passed away, his legacy would live on. She expressed the hope that these legacies would continue to be upheld and further developed as needed.
President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Owo to console the family of the late Governor Akeredolu was a significant demonstration of solidarity and support during their time of mourning.
