NBA MOURNS AKEREDOLU: “HE WAS ONE OF OUR MOST COURAGEOUS PRESIDENTS”

Babatunji Wusu –

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has expressed its sorrow over the loss of former governor of Ondo State, Rotimi Akeredolu, calling him one of the most fearless and powerful NBA presidents in history.

In 2008 and 2010, Akeredolu, who was admitted to the bar in 1978, served as the NBA president.

It was stated that Akeredolu, 67, passed away on Wednesday following a lengthy illness.

In a statement released on Wednesday, NBA President Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, said that Akeredolu would be known for his services to the growth and development of Ondo State and the South West zone.

“It is with heavy hearts that I pay tribute to His Excellency, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, the Executive Governor of Ondo State and the Past President of the Nigerian Bar Association,” the statement said. “After a protracted illness, his transition took place on December 27, 2023.

He held positions as the Ibadan Branch’s secretary and vice chair before rising to the rank of 24th President of the Association from 2008 to 2010—one of the most fearless and powerful presidents to have led the NBA in history.

“The late erudite Senior Advocate served the country in a number of other posts at different times. From 1997 to 1999, he served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice. Later, from 2017 until his death, he served as Governor for two terms.

“His numerous contributions to the expansion and advancement of Ondo State and the surrounding area will be fondly remembered. In order to address security issues in the western region, Aketi, as Governor, spearheaded the creation of the regional security network, Amotekun. Thus far, the network has been successful in curbing the wave of acts of terrorism, armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, and similar crimes in the area, and it is currently being used as a template by other locations.