The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has honored the late Ondo State Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, as one of the most influential and courageous presidents in the association’s history.
Akeredolu, who was called to the Bar in 1978, served as the NBA president from 2008 to 2010 and passed away at the age of 67 in Germany on Wednesday following a prolonged illness.
In a statement released on Wednesday by the NBA’s president, Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, Akeredolu was recognized for his significant contributions to the advancement and development of Ondo State and the South West region.
The statement conveyed condolences and paid tribute to the late governor.
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The statement read, “It is with a heavy heart that I pay tribute to His Excellency, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, SAN, the Executive Governor of Ondo State and Past President of the Nigerian Bar Association, whose transition took place on December 27, 2023, after a protracted ill-health.”
Highlighting Akeredolu’s esteemed position within the NBA, the statement noted, “He variously served as Secretary and Vice Chair of the Ibadan Branch and went on to become the 24th President of the Association from 2008 to 2010 – one of the most influential and courageous Presidents ever to lead the NBA.”
The statement also acknowledged Akeredolu’s broader service to the nation, including his roles as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice from 1997 to 1999 and two-term Governor from 2017 until his passing.
Akeredolu’s positive contributions to the growth and development of Ondo State and the entire region were highlighted in the statement, particularly noting his leadership in establishing the regional security network, Amotekun.
The network has proven effective in addressing security challenges in the western region and serves as a model for other regions to emulate.
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